UPDATED 5.58PM: Three people have been taken to hospital following a two car crash.

Police say one person is in a serious condition after two vehicles crashed on State Highway 29A at Poike, Tauranga.

"It happened just after 4pm between Oropi Road and Welcome Bay Road. The road is closed and diversions are in place.

"Three people have been taken to Tauranga Hospital, one in a serious condition.

"The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance, working to establish the circumstances of the crash."

According to the NZTA, the highway is now open.

EARLIER:

State Highway 29A, near Windermere, is closed due to a serious crash this afternoon.

Emergency services are at the scene of the crash on the highway near the Poike Road roundabout.

The New Zealand Transport Agency says the road is closed in both directions.

A police media spokesperson says the serious crash unit has been advised of the crash.

It's believed firefighters had to cut an occupant out of the vehicle.

It's unclear exactly how badly injured they are.

Motorists are advised to avoid the scene until the highway is re-opened.

At the scene?

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