'Fantastic young man': School student killed in crash

A Canterbury high school student who died in a crash near Rangiora on Saturday morning has been remembered as a young man with "lots of energy and charm".

The Rangiora High School student died at the scene and three other people were injured, one critically, in the crash on Loburn Whiterock Rd about 10.25am.

"Sadly, one person died at the scene, while another was critically hurt," Senior Sergeant Chris Wakelin said on Saturday.

"Two other occupants received moderate injuries."

The vehicle appeared to have hit a tree on Loburn Whiterock Rd, near the intersection of Barkers Rd.

Rangiora High School principal Bruce Kearney told The Press the year 11 boy who died in the crash was named Ethan.

Kearney said he was a "fantastic young man with lots of energy and charm. He will be greatly missed".

The school would have counsellors on site for students on Monday.

"This will be the beginning of a long journey for all those involved, and our hearts especially go out to the family during this deeply sad time," Kearney said. 

The road was closed on Saturday as the Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene examination.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon took to Facebook to say he was "deeply saddened" by the loss.

"My thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the families. No words can ease the pain of such a loss, and our community mourns alongside you,” he posted to Facebook.

"This is a devastating moment for our community – especially the school community.

"Rangiora is a close-knit place, and when something like this happens, the hurt is felt far and wide especially across the school - by students, staff, families, and friends.

"Please know that you are not alone. We stand together in grief and support of one another."

- Allied Media