Bay of Plenty Police are warning motorists travelling between Whakatane and Ohope to delay their travel after a serious crash

The Pacific Coast Highway is blocked after two vehicles collided at about 3.20pm.

Police say the only access to Ohope is through Taneatua, which is a lengthy diversion.

Initial indications suggest one person has critical injuries, and another has serious injuries.

Three others have minor to moderate injures.

The road is expected to be closed for some time.