Fatal crash near Tauranga

One person is confirmed dead and six others are injured after two trucks and an SUV towing a trailer collided tonight in Western Bay of Plenty.

Emergency services responded to the crash scene on State Highway 2 between Pahoia Rd and Apata Station Rd, near Tauranga, about 7.30pm.

The driver of a small truck died at the scene.

The five occupants of the SUV, and the driver of a large truck were taken to Tauranga Hospital with minor injuries.

The road is closed and traffic is being diverted around the crash via Wainui South Rd and Esdaile Rd.

Police said the road would remain closed "for a considerable period" while the scene was cleared and the cause of the crash investigated.

The Serious Crash Unit will investigate, and the fire service is assisting with a mobile lighting unit.

Environment Bay of Plenty is dealing with a spill of diesel and orange juice on the road.