UPDATE: A 72-year-old man was airlifted to Tauranga hospital in a serious condition after crashing off a motorcycle in Opotiki this afternoon.
The Tauranga man suffered serious chest injuries after he lost control of the motorcycle he was riding and went into a drain, said rescue helicopter pilot Liam Brettkelly in a statement.
It is unsure why the man crashed on a straight stretch of road.
The man was treated at the scene by St John ambulance staff before being flown to hospital in a serious condition.
The helicopter used because of the distance to hospital.
EARLIER: A 74-year-old motorcyclist suffering life threatening injuries is being flown to Tauranga Hospital this afternoon.
The man lost control of his motor bike and rode into a culvert about 2.50pm, said police.
Emergency Services are currently at the crash on State Highway 2, Waioeka Rd, Opotiki.
State Highway 2 has been closed while emergency services are at the scene.
No other vehicles were involved.
Inspector Tony Wakelin said it was believed family members were following the motorcycle in a car and witnessed the crash.
The man was trapped in the drain until freed by emergency services.
He has Status 1 life threatening injuries and has been airlifted to hospital, police said.
State Highway 2 is closed south of Opotiki near Otara due to the crash.
There is no detour route available so motorists are being advised to delay their journey if possible.
The road is expected to reopen by 5pm.
The Serious Crash Unit is at the crash scene.