UPDATED 5PM: Police hope to reopen Te Puke Highway soon following a two-vehicle crash involving a car and truck this afternoon.

Western Bay of Plenty road policing manager Senior Sergeant Ian Campion says the driver of the car sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash and has since been transported to Tauranga Hospital.

A car and truck have crashed on Te Puke Highway this afternoon. Photos: Andrew Campbell.

'Te Puke Highway is still closed with traffic being diverted down Welcome Bay Road and also via Tara, Parton and Bell roads.

'We're hoping to have the scene cleared very shortly and we would like to thank motorists for their patience this afternoon.”

Ian estimates the road should be reopened before 6pm, if not sooner.

EARLIER:

Traffic is at a standstill near Te Puke following a crash between a truck and car.

The crash happened on Te Puke Highway between the Papamoa interchange and the Welcome Bay turnoff just before 3.30pm.

A reporter at the scene says traffic coming from Te Puke is being diverted down Welcome Bay Road.

"Traffic is backed up to the Papamoa interchange. It's probably best to head down Parton and Bell roads.

"Ambulance, police and fire are at the scene. Traffic is at a standstill."

Earlier:

Reports are coming in of a crash between a car and truck near Papamoa this afternoon.

It's unclear how bad the crash is and how many people are involved.

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says the crash is on Te Puke Highway, between Bell Road and Poplar Lane.

Motorists are being asked to avoid the area if possible, or expect delays in their travels.

We will bring you more information soon.

At the scene?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz