5.55pm Update: Police can now confirm eight people died in this morning's crash on Ohakuri Road.

Two vehicles were involved the crash - an SUV and a van.

The driver of the SUV (the sole occupant of that vehicle), and the driver and six passengers in the van were killed.

One passenger in the van, a child, was critically injured and was air-lifted to Waikato Hospital.

The road has now re-opened. Police thank motorists for their patience and cooperation as emergency services worked at the crash scene.

3pm Update: Police have confirmed that there have been multiple fatalities following the crash near Ohakuri Road this morning.

An SUV and a van have collided and a significant amount of debris has been strewn all over the road.

At the moment Police say it is unclear how many people have been killed due to the catastrophic nature of the crash and therefore it will take some time for emergency services to establish exactly how many people have been involved in the crash.

The Disaster Victim Identification team (DVI) have been called in to assist with the investigation.

At least one person suffering critical injuries was air-lifted to hospital this morning.

The road is closed for an extended period for the scene to be examined so traffic is diverted and there will be lengthy delays.

Police thank motorists for their patience at this time.

11.40am update: Police have confirmed that there are several fatalities following a crash near Ohakuri Road this morning.

At least one person has suffered critical injuries and a rescue helicopter has been called to the scene.

The road will be closed for an extended period, so traffic will be diverted and there will be lengthy delays.

Motorists are asked to plan their journey to avoid SH1 between Taupo and Atiamuri if at all possible.

11.03am update: Police are currently on the scene of a vehicle crash which occurred around 10.30am near Ohakuri Road, Atiamuri, Taupo.

Several people have been injured and the road will be closed while emergency services work at the scene.

Motorists are asked to take road diversions where indicated.

It is believed that two vehicles are involved.

More information will be released when it comes to hand.

The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

At the scene? Email newsroom@thesun.co.nz