Police shut down SH36 at Pyes Pa

Traffic is blocked off on SH36 at Pyes Pa after police closed the road this afternoon. Photo/supplied

3.44pm: At least six police cars and a police dog unit have been seen at the location where State Highway 36 was shut down this afternoon.

Read the full report here: Armed police operation stops traffic

A motorists caught up in traffic said it had slowly started to move again after backing up for several kilometres. Police closed the highway at Williams Rd shortly after 3pm. It has just been re-opened.

Senior Sergeant Ian Campion said the road was closed for 'safety reasons' as a search warrant was held on the stretch of highway.

3.29pm: Traffic remains at a standstill on State Highway 36 at Pyes Pa.

A reporter at the scene said traffic was backed up kilometres on this side of Williams Rd.

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Turner of Tauranga police said a search warrant was being executed in the Pyes Pa area.

Mr Turner said SH36 was closed at the northern end of Oropi Gorge Rd, but said he did not believe it would be closed for much longer.

3.14pm: Police have blocked off State Highway 36 near Williams Rd causing traffic to back up.

A motorist caught up in the traffic hold-up says the police car has its lights flashing and an officer is standing outside.

Police could not be reached for comment.