UPDATE 6.58AM: A man has died following a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 2, north of Katikati.

Emergency services were called to a two vehicle crash, between Tuapiro and Hikurangai roads around 8.30pm.

In a statement this morning, police have confirmed that he has since passed away.

"He was the driver of one vehicle," says a police spokesperson.

"The three occupants of the other vehicle received minor injuries.

"The Serious Crash Unit has been in attendance and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing."

The road has been opened, after being closed in both directions for some time last night.

The death has been referred to the Coroner.

EARLIER:

State Highway 2 is open this morning following a serious crash north of Katikati.

Emergency services were called to a two vehicle crash, between Tuapiro and Hikurangai roads around 8.30pm.

A police spokesperson says one person is reported to be seriously injured.

The serious crash unit was called in to investigate the scene.

The road was closed in both directions for several hours.

The NZTA reports that the highway was re-opened around 2.30am.