10.40pm update: State Highway 29, Kaimai Range has reopened following a serious crash earlier where one person died.

Update 8.51pm: A SunLive reporter at the scene on SH29, Kaimai Range says contractors blocking the road suggest "could be closed until Saturday morning" following a fatal car crash earlier this evening.

"The detour to Tauranga from Waikato is via SH28."

Earlier: 6.47pm: One person has died following a serious crash on SH29 near the Kaimai Range Summit, a police spokesperson says.

"The road is expected to remain closed for some time while the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene," says the police spokesperson.

"The diversions available will likely add significant travel time to anyone looking to move through the area.

"We advise motorists to consider delaying travel, if possible."

Traffic building up this evening following the crash. Photo: Supplied/SunLive.

Earlier 6.27pm: Due to a serious crash near the Kaimai Range Summit SH29 is closed between SH28, Te Poi and SH36, Tauriko, Tauranga and is "likely to remain closed for some time" according to a Waka Kotahi/NZTA spokesperson.

The spokesperson adds police will carry out a serious crash investigation.

"Delay your journey or consider using an alternative route via SH36 Rotorua or SH2 Karangahake Gorge."

Earlier 5.01pm: Waikato and Bay of Plenty police are responding to a serious crash on SH29, near the top of the Kaimai Range.

"Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries," says a police spokesperson.

"There will be significant disruptions to traffic while emergency services attend.

"Motorists are asked to please avoid the area or expect significant delays."

EARLIER 4.40pm: A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE hotline says a crash on the Kaimai Range is causing heavy traffic.

"I am just driving through and the traffic is backed up for miles," says the caller.

"It looks to be a two or more car crash, both have rolled. It is absolutely massive.

"Emergency services don't seem to be here yet."

SunLive has approached police for comment.

According to Google Maps, traffic is building up in the area.

Photo: Google Maps.