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State Highway 29 near Tauranga is expected to be closed for some time following a crash that has left one person with critical injuries. 

Emergency services were called to the three-vehicle crash, involving a car, ute and small truck, about 10.30am. 

The crash happened between Poripori Rd and Thorn Rd. 

NZ Transport Agency said in an update about 12.25pm that police were undertaking a serious crash investigation which may see SH29 remain closed for some time today. 

“Delay your journey or consider using alternative routes: Either SH36 and 5 via Rotorua or SH2, 26 and 27 via K-Gorge [Karangahake Gorge] and Matamata.” 

In a statement to SunLive, a police spokesperson said one person had been flown to hospital in critical condition. 

“The injured person was travelling in a vehicle with two other occupants, both of whom are being taken to hospital by ambulance.” 

Aerial view of traffic build up after SH29 crash on the Kaimai Range. 

“The sole occupants of the two other vehicles are uninjured.” 

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said two people were taken to Tauranga Hospital by ambulance, one in a serious condition and one in a moderate condition. 

”One further patient, in a critical condition, is being airlifted to Auckland City Hospital.” 

There are diversions in place at McLaren Falls Rd and Omanawa Rd. 

“The crash has closed the highway and there is heavy traffic as a result,” police said. 

“Motorists, especially those leaving Tauranga, are advised to expect delays while the scene is cleared, which may take some time.” 

A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson said two fire trucks were in attendance. 

”No persons were trapped,” the spokesperson said. 

“Motorists, especially those leaving Tauranga, are advised to expect delays while the scene is cleared, which may take some time.” 

An NZTA spokesperson advised drivers to follow the instructions of response crews. 

Delays were expected and motorists should consider delaying their journeys. 

Vehicle rolls in Mount Maunganui 

Traffic has been reduced to one lane on Newton St at Mount Maunganui following a vehicle crash. 

“A vehicle rolled on Newton St, near Hull Rd, about 10.40am,” a police spokesperson said. 

“There are no serious injuries.” 

A SunLive reader said traffic is moving slowly. 

Rolled car on Newton St at Mount Maunganui. Photo / Grace Dekker 

“It’s down to one lane at the moment.” 

Motorists are advised to expect delays.