FILE
State Highway 29 near the Kaimai Summit has reopened following a serious crash this afternoon.
A person was flown to hospital in a serious condition after the crash between a truck and a ute near the Kaimai summit on the Matamata side.
The crash closed the road for a time - causing lengthy delays and detours for motorists.
A police spokeswoman said the crash was reported about 1.20pm and the road was closed until about 6.30pm.
A St John spokeswoman said one person had been flown to Tauranga Hospital in a serious condition.
A statement from Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency advised motorists to avoid the area if possible as detours may be required.
A Bay of Plenty Times photographer at the scene said traffic was backed up well before the Ruahihi power station with people saying there was a three-hour wait and choosing to turn around.
The 4m tall digger is sitting upright in 12m of water.