A serious two-vehicle crash that has reportedly injured five people has closed part of State Highway 1 in South Waikato this morning.

In a statement, police said emergency services were alerted to the crash at Pairere, about 5.30am.

“Five people are reported to have serious injuries,” a police spokesperson said.

State Highway 1 is blocked between Horahora Road and Paparamu Road and traffic management is being arranged.

Fire and Emergency told 1News it received a call about a vehicle collision, and arrived to find three people trapped in one vehicle.

Crews from Putaruru and Tirau were working to extract them from the vehicle.

New Zealand Transport Waka Kotahi said SH1 was closed between Piarere roundabout and Tirau due to the serious crash.

“This section of SH1 is likely to remain closed for some time this morning as NZ Police undertake a serious crash investigation,” the agency said.

“Consider delaying your journey or allow extra time for a detour.”

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