Child seriously injured in four-car crash

A young child is in a serious condition following a four-car crash north of Auckland.

Emergency services were called to State Highway 16, south of Kumeu, just after 9am.

Police said initial reports are that one vehicle came to rest in a ditch and a young child has had to be cut from the wreckage.

The child has been taken to hospital in a serious condition, while two other people have been hospitalised with less serious injuries.

SH16 is closed at the scene, and diversions are in place at Old North and Old Railway Roads.

NZTA recommends motorists avoid the area if possible.

- nzherald.co.nz