Three people are dead after a crash involving four separate vehicles on State Highway 2 near Whakatane.
State Highway 2 near Whakatane is likely to be closed until at least 6.30pm Photo: NZTA
Emergency services were alerted to a collision between a truck and a car in Pikowai at about 1.50pm.
It was later confirmed four cars were involved. The three victims died at the scene.
A spokesperson for the Bay of Plenty District Health Board said a 46-year-old man was in Tauranga Hospital's emergency department. His condition is not yet known.
The three people who died were employed by Fletcher Building.
In a statement, Fletcher Building chief executive Ross Taylor said the company's thoughts and deepest sympathies were with the family and friends of the three people who died, two of which were part of the company's Higgins business and one who was a contractor for them.
"This is an absolute tragedy, and we are moving to offer our support to those affected and to our people in the area."
State Highway Two between Hauone and Pikowai remains closed as a scene investigation is underway.
NZTA said police hoped to have the road open by 9pm tonight. Drivers were warned to allow an extra 45 minutes for travel times in the area.
Police are asking that anyone who witnessed the crash to contact Whakatane Police on (07) 308 5255.
In particular, they want to speak to a paraglider who was above the scene of the crash when it occurred.