Update: Hato Hone St John responded at 11:56am deploying a significant emergency response, a spokesperson said.

"Two helicopters, two ambulances, a rapid response unit, and a manager were sent to the scene."

Emergency crews assessed and treated two patients, one in critical condition and another in serious condition.

Both were airlifted to Waikato Hospital for urgent medical care.

Two people were seriously injured following a two-vehicle crash.

The incident occurred near  State Highway 2 East, Nukuhou, Whakatane at 12.40pm, police said.

State Highway 2 East will be closed, with diversions in place.

Motorists travelling on State Highway 2 will need to follow a temporary detour due to a road closure.

Two people were trapped in both cars but were rescued, according to a Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson.

"They are now in the care of ambulances," the spokesperson said.

For eastbound traffic, the detour route directs vehicles to turn right onto Waimana Road, left onto Lowe Road, left onto Bell Road, and then right to rejoin SH2.

Westbound traffic will follow the same route in reverse.

The detour is not suitable for trucks, said NZTA.

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