Update 2.20pm - Two people are reportedly trapped following a serious incident on State Highway 2 near Bethlehem.

A police media spokesperson says emergency services are at the scene.

"The power-pole has been knocked down and the road is expected to remain closed for some time.

"Diversions are in place at the intersections of SH 2/Wairoa Road and SH 2/Te Paeroa Road.

"No information is available as yet on any injuries."

Widespread delays have been reported across the entire city and its outskirts, with wait times of up to an hour for some motorists.

NZTA says motorists should use SH29 as an alternative route.

A power outage is also affecting properties in the area. According to the PowerCo website 444 properties are without power.

Estimated restoration time is 6.30pm.

Earlier:

Power is out, the road is closed and two cars are trapped by power lines following a serious incident on State Highway 2 near Bethlehem.

NZTA say the incident has happened on SH2 between Wairoa Pa and Parau Dr.

"A serious incident has been reported in this area. Emergency Services are on site.

"The road is closed between Wairoa Pa Rd and Te Paeroa Rd.

"Please avoid the area or delay your journey if possible."

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says two cars are involved and it looks as though a power pole is across the road.

"This has happened on the north side of Bethlehem, before the river.

"Two power poles are broken and have fallen onto the main road, with live wires landing on top of the two cars.

"One car has got burn marks from the power arching out on it.

"Northbound traffic is being detoured up Wairoa Rd."

According to the PowerCo website 444 properties are without power near Bethlehem.

At the scene?

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