The Chinese Embassy told 1 NEWS it's sending an ambassador to Rotorua to offer condolences after the fatal tourist bus crash this morning.
Police say five people died after a bus rolled on State Highway 5 between Waiohotu and Galaxy roads around 11am.
The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand issued the following statement to 1 NEWS about the fatal tourist bus crash: "The Embassy attaches great importance to the tragic incident. Our deep condolences with those who died and injured.
"Ambassador Wu Xi is now on her way to Rotorua to meet the injured Chinese citizens and provide assistance."
Liang Zhi, a diplomat from New Zealand's Chinese Embassy, told The Associated Press that they understand the bus was carrying tourists mostly from the Sichuan province.
A St John spokesperson says five helicopters and five ambulances were dispatched to the scene.
St John says 21 people have been taken to various hospitals in the area, including one person in a serious condition who was airlifted to Waikato Hospital.
The number of fatalities has yet to be confirmed.
State Highway 5 is closed between Tirau and Ngongotaha, the NZ Transport Agency says.
Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to avoid the area.
The Red Cross Disaster Welfare and Support Team has been activated, with volunteers supporting those affected by the crash.
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