UPDATE: Eight people have been injured following a serious crash on State Highway 2.

"Four patients are in a critical condition and will be airlifted to hospital," says a police spokesperson.

"Four patients have moderate injuries."

Police are advising motorists in Western Bay of Plenty to avoid the Athenree Gorge area near Waihi Beach following a serious crash.

SH2 is blocked and emergency services are enroute.

"Traffic management will be in place, but it may be some hours before the road is cleared.

"The Serious Crash Unit has been advised."

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says there has been a crash on Waihi Beach Road, which is the road being used as a possible diversion following the SH2 crash.

"There doesn't appear to be any injuries in the Waihi Beach Road crash, but it is blocking the road.

"Delays should be expected."

EARLIER:

Reports are coming in of a serious crash on State Highway 2.

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says there is a serious crash on the highway in the Athenree Gorge.

They it look like there a multiple people injured.

Google's Live Traffic reports traffic is stalled on the Bay of Plenty side of the highway.

Image: Google Maps.

Motorists are advised to expect delays.

SunLive is working on getting more information and will provide an update when we can.

At the scene?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to [email protected]