UPDATED 8.37pm: State Highway 2 has reopened following a serious crash involving multiple vehicles in Pongokawa.

NZTA Waka Kotahi has issued an alert saying that the section of the highway between Pongokawa and Pukehina is now open.

UPDATED 4:48pm: A number of people have serious injuries after a multi vehicle crash on State Highway 2 in Pongakawa.

Emergency services were alerted to the crash near Pongakawa Station Road around 4pm, says a police spokesperson.

Helicopters have been dispatched and a number of people have serious injuries, they say.

The road is closed between Pongakawa and Pukehina and diversions are in place.

Police say the road will be closed for a few hours so motorists are asked to avoid the area or expect delays.

The New Zealand Transport Agency is advising the following diversions.

For eastbound traffic: Turn right onto Pongakawa School Road, turn left onto Old Coach Rd, turn left onto Benner Road, turn right to continue onto SH2. For westbound traffic do the route in reverse.

EARLIER: Reports are coming in of a three vehicle crash on State Highway 2 in Pongakawa.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson says they are at the scene of the crash near Pongakawa Station Road.

Police and ambulance are also responding to the incident.

"Motorists are advised to avoid the area."

New Zealand Transport Agency is advising the road is closed between Pongakawa and Pukehina and diversions are in place.

For eastbound traffic: Turn right onto Pongakawa School Road, turn left onto Old Coach Rd, turn left onto Benner Road, turn right to continue onto SH2. For westbound traffic do the route in reverse.

NZTA says people should delay their journey of possible and to expect delays.

SunLive is working to get more information and will update the story when possible.

At the scene?

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The crash happened near Pongakawa Station Road. Image: Google Maps.