Emergency crews were called to the New England Highway at Murulla, south of Murrurundi, about 3.30pm on Sunday.

Police said in a statement on Sunday evening it is believed a car and ute collided, causing a further crash involving a bus.

Paramedics treated multiple people at the scene. Four men from the bus were taken to Scone Hospital, while another passenger and the driver of one car were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District remained at the scene on Sunday night and were investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Police said just before 7pm that the New England Highway was expected to remain closed in both directions at Murulla for some time. Motorists were being urged to avoid the area.

IN THE NEWS:

WHAT DO YOU THINK? We've made it a whole lot easier for you to have your say. Our new comment platform requires only one log-in to access articles and to join the discussion on the Newcastle Herald website. Find out how to register so you can enjoy civil, friendly and engaging discussions. Sign up for a subscription here.

OR IF YOUR PIECE HAS CLOSED COMMENTS

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: