One person is dead after a crash which has sparked a scrub fire in the Bay of Plenty this afternoon.

Police say the crash happened between a motorbike and van.

Police, St John Paramedics and firefighters have been called to the crash scene in Cape Runaway.

"The male rider was found dead at the scene. Police have informed immediate next of kin, but will not be naming the crash victim until extended family have been informed," say police.

State Highway 35, between Opotiki and Te Araroa, is currently closed and people are being advised to use the detour route available.

A scrub fire was started as a result of the crash and firefighters are currently trying to contain it.

The serious crash unit is investigating the crash.

The driver of the van is understood to have suffered minor injuries.