Borren said members of the Toi Ohomai team were on site supporting students.
“We have activated our internal support processes to ensure students and staff receive any assistance and support they, or their whānau, may need.”
The crash was reported to police at about 9.46am, near the intersection of State Highways 38 and 5.
Police said the two-vehicle crash had resulted in injuries and the Serious Crash Unit had been advised.
“The road remains closed as emergency services work at the scene.”
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH38 was closed in both directions.
“Avoid the area and allow extra time for a detour.”
Emergency services are at a crash near the State Highway 38/SH5 intersection. Photo / Google Maps
A Hato Hone St John spokesman said a helicopter, three ambulances and one operations manager were sent to the crash.
One seriously injured person has been airlifted to Waikato Hospital while two people with serious injuries were taken to Rotorua Hospital by ambulance.
Two others with moderate and minor injuries were also taken to Rotorua Hospital.
Seven other people were assessed by ambulance staff but did not need to go to hospital, the spokesperson said.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews from Rotorua were assisting police and ambulance services at the scene.
Yesterday, a person was seriously injured after a vehicle hit a tree on the same stretch of highway.
Two people were cut from the vehicle and one was airlifted to Waikato Hospital.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
For travel between Murupara and Rotorua, NZTA advises motorists to detour via Waimangu Rd and Okaro Rd. Those travelling on SH5 between Waiotapu and Rotorua can detour via Waikite Valley Rd and Tumunui Rd.
Heavy vehicles are being encouraged to delay travel or use State Highways 30 and 1 instead.
Police said the highway would remain closed while emergency services responded and investigations were carried out.