12.30pm update: State Highway 24 near Matamata has reopened following a fatal crash earlier today.

Emergency services responded to the crash at about 6.30am, but sadly the 54-year-old driver died at the scene.

Police thank motorists for their patience.

10.30am update: A person has died on Saturday morning following a crash near Matamata.

Police are confirming a man has died following single-vehicle crash on State Highway 24, south of Matamata, earlier today.

Emergency services responded to the crash at about 6.30am, but sadly the 54-year-old driver died at the scene.

There were no other occupants of the car.

The highway remains blocked and is expected to be closed until at least midday.

Cordons are in place at the intersection of SH24 and Te Poi Road, and SH24 and Stopford Road.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and choose an alternate route.

The serious crash unit is in attendance investigating the crash.

7.30am update: State Highway 24, south of Matamata, is closed following a serious crash on Saturday morning.

Emergency services received reports of a single-vehicle crash on State Highway 24, south of Matamata, at about 6.30am.

"It appears the vehicle has left the road and gone down a ditch," says a Police spokesperson.

Fire and Emergency, St John Ambulance and Police are at the scene, and the serious crash unit has been notified.

It is unclear at this point the number of injured persons, although the driver has sustained serious injuries.

The highway is blocked and is expected to be closed for at least several hours.

Cordons are in place at the intersection of SH24 and Te Poi Road, and SH24 and Stopford Road.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and choose an alternate route.

Earlier, 7am: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is reporting that a serious crash has occurred near Te Poi.

The crash is located in the area from SH 24 Matamata to SH29.

The agency advises that due to the crash, the road was closed between Te Poi Rd and SH29 at 6.40am.

A detour is in place. Motorists are advised to follow the detour and allow extra time for their journey

For eastbound traffic, drivers are advised to turn right onto Te Poi Rd, and turn left onto SH29.

For westbound, turn left to continue on SH29, turn right onto Te Poi Rd, then turn left to re-join SH24

At the scene? Phone 0800 SUNLIVE or email [email protected]