Five people were hurt in a serious crash on State Highway 1 north of Whangārei which sparked a major response from emergency services.

The Advocate understands a light truck towing a caravan and an SUV collided on SH1 near Puhipuhi Rd north of Whakapara at around 2pm.

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson confirmed five people had been injured. Two were seriously hurt and taken to Whangārei Hospital alongside one other patient in a moderate condition. The remaining two people were moderately injured and taken to Bay of Islands Hospital.

A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson said three fire appliances from Whangārei and Hikurangi stations turned out to assist Hato Hone St John, which had also dispatched three ambulances along with a rapid response unit.

The Fenz spokesperson confirmed no one involved in the crash was trapped.

SH1 is closed between Hukerenui Rd and Jordan Valley Rd and a diversion is in place at Hukerenui Rd. Waka Kotahi advised motorists to detour via Jordan Valley Rd and Hukerenui Rd.

However, police indicated the portion of highway was expected to reopen shortly.

They said inquiries into the circumstances of the crash were underway.