By rnz.co.nz

A fatal crash closed northbound lanes on the Southern Motorway at Ōtara for several hours early this morning.

Photo: Waka Kotahi

The pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in the northbound lanes, near the Te Irirangi Overbridge at 3.50am.

The person died at the scene, a police spokesperson said.

The serious crash unit has been investigating.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said the closure was between the off-ramp onto SH20 and Te Irirangi Drive.

The lanes were reopened by 8.30am.