Highway open after serious crash

State Highway 30 is now open after a two-hour closure due to a serious crash.

About 11.40am today emergency services attended a serious injury motor vehicle crash on State Highway 30 near Te Teko in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

The crash occurred between Tahuna and Galatea Rd.

Sergeant Ray Wylie of the Whakatane police said a vehicle travelling west towards Te Teko collided with a motorcycle.

The rider and its pillion passenger were seated on the motorcycle and were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The rider and its passenger were transferred to Whakatane hospital, the rider suffered serious injuries while the pillion passenger received moderate injuries.

The road was closed for about two hours while the serious crash team completed their inquiries.

Mr Wylie said the wearing of a restraint was compulsory and must be worn at all times.

"This is a disappointing outcome considering the national Lifesaver campaign held last week and the national media accompanying this.

"The wearing of a restraint including a seatbelt and safety helmets do save lives," said Mr Wylie.

Anyone who may have witnessed this crash are asked to contact the Whakatane police station on (07) 308 5255.

EARLIER:

A serious crash on State Highway 30 near Te Teko has closed the road and left a motorist critical.

The crash is near the intersection of Tahuna Rd and motorists are being warned to expect delays.

A police spokesman said a person in a critical condition was being transported by road to hospital and another person who was seriously injured was being airlifted.

He said no details were able to be released at the moment.

A detour via SH30, Te Teko Rd, SH2, Hydro Road and back onto SH30 is in place for eastbound traffic and vice versa for vehicles heading west.