UPDATE: 12.19pm: Police are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 2 and part of the road is now closed.

In a statement, police say the crash is east of Pikowai Road and that a vehicle is on fire.

'Fire and Emergency New Zealand are also in attendance,” says a police spokesperson.

A witness on the scene says the accident involved a car and a truck.

'The car has been completely burnt out and is a burned-out wreck by the railway line,” they say.

'The truck is further down the road with the front cab overturned and the trailer still upright.

'It looks like the road is going to be closed for hours, to remove the car and truck, and clean up all the road debris.”

Diversions are being put in place at the Matatā township and at Old Coach Road.

'Motorists are asked to please avoid the area, or seek alternative routes if possible,” says a police statement.

'More information will be provided when available.”

Google's live traffic maps are reporting delays on the highway near Pikowai Road. Image: Google Maps.

Another eyewitness at the nearby campground says they heard a 'loud bang” around the time of the accident.

Waka Kotahi NZTA is advising that SH2 is now closed between Old Coach Rd, Pukehina and Arawa St Matamata to allow for a serious crash investigation and clean up.

Motorists are advised to allow extra time and follow the detour in place.

EARLIER: 11.54am: Reports are coming in of a crash on State Highway 2, near Matata.

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says a car and truck have crashed.

"The crash is near Pikowai Road.

"It looks pretty bad."

People are being advised to either avoid the scene or expect delays in their travels.

Diversions are being put in place.

SunLive is working on getting more information and will provide an update when we can.

At the scene?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz