UPDATED 1.43PM: State Highway 35, at Opape, is now open following a serious motorbike crash this morning.

A 49-year-old motorcyclist is in Tauranga Hosptial with serious injuries as a result of the crash.

A crash between a motorcyclist and car has left one person in critical condition and another with minor injuries.

Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter spokesperson Todd Dunham says the male motorbike rider recevied serious head and abdominal injuries.

"The man was treated at the scene by St John Paramedics before being flown to Tauranga Hospital for further treatment.

"The New Zealand Fire Service secured the area so the helicopter could land on the road at the scene."

Todd says the helicopter was called due to the nature of the rider's injuries and the distance to the appropriate hospital.

Earlier:

Northern Fire Communications shift manager Colin Underdown says one person is in critical condition and another has suffered minor injuries.

'We are at the scene and are establishing a helicopter landing site at the moment.”

Both patients are being treated by St John Paramedics.

Police are investigating the cause of the crash.

Diversions are in place at Opape Beach Road.

At the scene? Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz