People are advised to avoid Te Puke Highway after a serious crash in the area.

Several emergency services’ vehicles are on the scene and the highway is reported to be blocked with traffic backing up in both directions.

A witness to the crash said it appeared a truck and two cars were involved.

Police said they were called about 1.55pm with a report of a three-vehicle crash near the intersection of Te Puke Highway and Poplar Lane.

“It appears one person has serious injuries and another with minor injuries.

“The road is reported to be blocked with diversions in place, however it looks like this will be clear shortly.”

A Hato Hone St John said they responded to the crash with two ambulances are currently at the scene.

“One patient in serious condition is being transported to Tauranga Hospital and one other patient in minor condition was assessed and treated at the scene.”