UPDATE 3.30PM: State Highway 2 between Omokoroa and Katikati is open again following a fatal crash at Apata earlier today.



Earlier:

One person is confirmed dead and at least one other seriously injured following a three-vehicle crash on State Highway 2 at Apata.

Tauranga Police Senior Sergeant Shannon Clifford says one motorist was also trapped in a vehicle but has now been freed.

Two silver cars involved in the three-car crash on State Highway 2.



The crash involving a white van and two silver cars occurred on the highway north of Apata Station Road just after midday.

Police have closed the highway to all but heavy vehicles. Diversions are in place at Wainui South Road and Esdaile Road.

It is expected that road closures will be in place for some time and motorists are urged to take alternative routes and to be patient.

Police Serious Crash Unit is in attendance, along with Omokoroa firefighters and St John Ambulance.

Earlier:

At least one person is trapped and another reported dead in a serious crash on State Highway 2, between Omokoroa and Apata.

A caller to 0800 SUNLIVE reports a van is on its roof, one car is in the middle of the road and another car is down a ditch off the highway near Francis Road.

Diversons at Apata Station Road.



Traffic is diverted down Wainui South Road.



Northern Fire Communications shift manager Scott Osmond says firefighters from Katikati and Omokoroa are responding to the call.

“We’re not sure how many people are involved and we believe one person may have died.”

Western Bay of Plenty road policing manager Senior Sergeant Ian Campion says diversions will be place as emergency services deal with the serious crash.

“I don’t have much at this stage but there are three vehicles involved. There will be diversions in place on Apata Station Road, Wainui South Road and Esdaile Road.

“People are asked to avoid the area if possible as there will be some significant delays.”

The crash is near Apata Station Road nearing an 85km/h corner.

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