UPDATE 11.35am: State Highway 5 between Tirau and Rotorua is now open after a crash earlier this morning.

A Waka Kotahi Facebook post says the section of road on SH5 is now open under stop/go traffic management.

"Allow extra time for delays or consider using an alternative route as NZ Police completes a serious crash investigation."

EARLIER 10am: State Highway 5 between Tirau and Rotorua is closed due to a crash and ongoing road works today.

Roading staff are working to reopen one lane of SH5 shortly, but motorists are still advised to expect significant delays today.

Major roadworks are also underway on State Highway 30 south of Rotorua.

Motorists travelling between Tirau and Rotorua are able to travel via Tauranga.

Police advise motorists to consider these factors when planning travel in the area today.

Earlier, 7.49am: Emergency services are responding to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 5 at Ngatira.

The crash is near near Waiohotu and Galaxy Roads.

Police were notified of the crash at about 6.40am.

"Initial indications suggest two people have sustained injuries," says a police spokesperson.

Waka Kotahi NZTA report that SH5 between Tirau and Rotorua is closed due to a serious crash.

"State Highway 5 is closed between SH28 (Harwoods Rd), Ngatira and Maraeroa Rd, Hamurana,' says a Waka Kotahi NZTA spokesperson.

"Delay your journey or consider using alternative route: http://spr.ly/6180OFh8i using SH29 and SH36 via Tauranga.

"Due to existing roadworks travel south of Rotorua via SH30 Horohoro/Atiamuri is not recommended."

This section of SH5 is likely to remain closed for some time this morning as NZ Police undertake a serious crash investigation.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are underway.

At the scene?

Phone 0800SUNLIVE or email newsroom@thesun.co.nz