A light plane has crashed on the grass strip at Tauranga Airport today.

A Northern Fire Communications spokesperson says the light craft crashed on Runway 25 near the control tower at about 2.45pm.

A light aircraft has crashed on the grass at Tauranga Airport.

St John and firefighters remain on site.

The pilot, believed to be owner Ross Scherer from Putaruru, was uninjured. He was the only person on board.

Tauranga Airport manager Ray Dumble says it may have been caused by engine trouble as the aircraft was taking off.

He heard a change in engine note before the 544kg Tecnam Sierra RG landed heavily, collapsing its landing gear.

Firefighters from Tauranga and Mount Maunganui were called to the airport but were not required.

St John Ambulance were also onsite.