Update: Serious crash east of Opotiki

CRASH: A crash near Opotiki this morning.

Updated: A man has been flown to Tauranga Hospital with serious injuries following a crash on State Highway 35 near Opotiki.

The Tauranga based Trustpower TECT Rescue helicopter was called to State Highway 35 near Tirohanga at 8am where a 49-year-old motorbike rider impacted a car.

The man received serious head and abdominal injuries and was treated at the scene by St John paramedics before being flown to Tauranga Hospital for further treatment.

Fire crews secured the area so the helicopter could land on the road at the scene.

The sole occupant of the car was not hurt.

A diversion was put in place via Opape Beach Rd but New Zealand Transport Agency has said the roads were now opened.

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