"We believe speed and alcohol were factors. The road has been fine for everybody else," Mr Summerville said.
Police are also believe another vehicle was involved in the incident but fled the scene before police arrived.
Mr Summerville appealed for anybody with information relating to the incident to contact Tauranga police.
"If there was anyone in the area at the time that may have seen two vehicles travelling at speed, please get in contact with Tauranga police," he said.
UPDATED: 8.04pm: One person has been seriously injured in the crash.
The crash involved at least two cars and possibly three, police said.
7.37PM: One person is trapped in a crash on Welcome Bay Rd near Water Lane and Waitao Rd.
Fire Northern Communications Centre shift manager Steve Smith said two cars were involved and power lines were on the road.
He said one person was trapped.
Cars were being diverted through the marae he said.
A reporter at the scene said Welcome Bay Rd has been cordoned off near State Highway 2.
EARLIER: Emergency services are responding to a collision in Welcome Bay this evening.
Police northern communications spokesperson said two cars have been involved in the collision and police are responding.
More to come.
