The Trustpower TECT helicopter was on scene in Papamoa where a light truck, van and car collided. Photo/supplied
A woman has been taken to hospital in a serious condition following a three-vehicle collision in Papamoa this afternoon.
Emergency crews were called to the corner of Bell Road and Te Puke Highway around 3pm.
A light truck, van and car were involved in the crash.
A police communications spokeswoman said the vehicles collided near the corner of the two roads.
The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was also required.
A 69-year-old woman suffered serious arm and leg injuries and had to be cut from her vehicle. She was then airlifted to Tauranga Hospital for treatment.
A spokesman for the TECT Rescue Helicopter said everyone else involved in the crash escaped with minor injuries.
The collision happened about 2.50pm and the northbound lane of Te Puke Highway had to be blocked off for some time and traffic diverted away from Domain Road.
This is one of a spate of crashes in the Western Bay today.
Other crashes included:
• Three-car crash Moffat Rd, Bethlehem
• Car crashes into building in Tauranga
• One dead in Bay of Plenty truck crash
The festival's opening ceremony included a new taonga gifting by the Rangi whānau.