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“The first indications are that there are serious injuries. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.”

One person commented on Facebook: “Oh no! I heard all the sirens and thought it might have been an accident.”

Another said: “Bus versus car. It’s not good.”

Another local resident wrote: “I just saw three appliances leaving Putaruru and three police officers and Ambo racing past from Tokoroa… It must be catastrophic.”

A spokesman for Hato Hone St John said seven ambulances, five helicopters and three rapid response units were sent to the scene.

Patients were taken by road and air to Waikato, Rotorua, Tauranga and Auckland hospitals.

The Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter confirmed it had transported a patient in a critical condition to Waikato Hospital.

“The Greenlea rescue helicopter is still on scene,” a spokesperson said.

The Herald understands the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter is also responding to the accident.

Waka Kotahi NZTA has also posted about the accident, warning motorists to expect delays.

“Due to a serious accident, State Highway 1 is closed between Tirau and Piarere Rbt due to an accident near Paparamu Rd.

“This section of SH1 is likely to remain closed for some time today as New Zealand Police conduct a serious accident investigation. Postpone your trip or plan extra time for a detour via SH27 and SH29.”

There is stop/go traffic control around the accident site.

A photo at the scene shows traffic backing up.

The Serious Crash Unit has been informed.

There’s more to come