Update, 2pm: Two people have been transported to Whakatane Hospital with moderate injuries following a crash on State Highway Two by Opotiki.

One person is currently unaccounted for.

A vehicle has crashed into a Bay of Plenty river and people are unaccounted for.

Emergency services were alerted about 10.20 am that a single vehicle had gone down a bank and entered the Waioeka River between Waioeka Pa Road and Waiata Road.

One person reportedly has serious injuries, police said.

Two people were unaccounted for, and Search and Rescue teams had travelled to the area to join the effort to find them.

Anyone downstream of the Historic Tauranga Bridge should call 111 if they have information that may assist Police.

Please reference P060175638.

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said they were notified of a motor vehicle incident in Waioeka about 10.10am, ust south of Waiata Road (Oponae Bridge).

One ambulance is at the scene so far.

State Highway 2 is currently closed and traffic management is being arranged. Motorists should expect delays.

NZTA Waka Kotahi advise motorists to be prepared for a long detour via Taupo and Napier, using SH2, SH5, SH30, SH2).

The road will be closed until further notice.

If at the scene  please continue to phone 0800 SUNLIVE (0800 7865483) or email photos to smb.nnewsroom@nzme.co.nz.

More details to come.