UPDATED: A motorcycle rider has serious injuries after a crash with a vehicle on State Highway 30, in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

The rider and a pillion passenger were not wearing helmets when the vehicle veered into their path just before 12pm.

Police are investigating a motorbike crash in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. File photo.

The crash occured between Tahuna and Galatea road.

"Initial enquiries indicate the driver of a vehicle travelling west towards Te Teko has turned into the path of an oncoming motorcycle," says Sergeant Ray Wylie.

"The rider and passenger were seated on the motorcycle and were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash."

The rider and its passenger were transferred to Whakatane hospital, the rider suffered serious injuries while the pillion passenger received moderate injuries.

The road was closed for about two hours while the serious crash team completed their enquiries.

Ray says the wearing of a restraint (or helmets) is compulsory and must be worn at all times.

"This is a disappointing outcome considering the national Lifesaver campaign held last week and the national media accompanying this.

"The wearing of a restraint including a seatbelt and safety helmets do save lives."

Anyone who may have witnessed this crash are asked to contact the Whakatane Police station on 07 3085255.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.

EARLIER:

State Highway 30 in the Bay of Plenty is closed following a motorbike crash.

Emergency services are on site and police ask drivers to either delay the journey or take an alternative route.

The road is closed at SH30 near the intersection with Tahuna Road, east of Te Teko.

The road was closed at 12.20pm and will be closed until further notice.

Alternative Routes:

Eastbound: Left From Sh30 Onto Te Teko Rd, Then Right Onto Sh2, Then Right Onto Hydro Rd, Left Onto Sh30. Westbound: Right From Sh30 Onto Hydro Rd, Left Onto Sh2 And Left Onto Te Teko Rd, Back To Sh30