One person is critical and seven others injured after a serious crash on State Highway 30, Rotoma this afternoon and police are seeking witnesses.
Emergency services responded to a two-vehicle crash on SH30 100m east of the Braemar Rd intersection.
A St John spokeswoman said the person in critical condition has been taken by helicopter to Waikato Hospital.
Four people were taken in moderate condition by ambulance to Whakatane Hospital and three people had minor injuries.
Four ambulances and two fire trucks were at the scene.
A Fire and Emergency spokesman said two people were trapped but had now been removed.
Police were called to the scene at 2.15pm.
The road was closed and could be for several hours while the Serious Crash Unit investigated.
Diversions were in place and motorists were advised to avoid the area.
Members of the public with information on the crash are urged to contact the Whakatāne Police Station on 07 308 5255.
Updates to come.