The main route between the West Coast and Nelson has reopened after a fatal crash in the Buller Gorge which forced motorists to take a lengthy detour through Reefton.
The collision, between a car transporter and a light van, happened about 9am near the Lyall walkway.
Senior Sergeant Shane Miles said the sole occupant of the van died at the scene.
Police were investigating the cause of the crash and attempting to locate and notify next of kin.
State Highway 6 at Inangahua Junction and O'Sullivans Bridge had reopened and traffic was returning to normal, he said.
