Two Malaysian students killed in NZ car crash

PETALING JAYA: Two Malaysian students died in a car crash in Christchurch, New Zealand on Saturday (March 30), says the Foreign Ministry.

Wisma Putra added that another three Malaysians, who were also students, were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital for urgent medical treatment.

"The High Commission of Malaysia in Wellington, with the assistance of the Malaysian community in Christchurch, is providing consular assistance to the victims and next-of-kin to ensure their welfare is well taken care of.

"The ministry and High Commission of Malaysia stand ready to assist should the next-of-kin decide to repatriate the remains to Malaysia," it said in a statement on Saturday.

The ministry confirmed that the accidents involving five individuals took place near Lake Tekapo at about 1.45pm local time.

Lake Tekapo was located about 700km southwest of New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, on the South Island.

Malaysians requiring consular assistance may contact the High Commission of Malaysia in Wellington via [phone] /[phone] or e-mail at [e-mail].

"The ministry also extends its heartfelt condolences to the next-of-kin of the victims involved in this tragic road accident," the statement read.