SH1 closed north of Whangārei after serious car crash

State Highway 1 is closed and a person is critically injured after a car crash at Hikurangi, north of Whangārei.

Three ambulances, a rescue helicopter, a rapid response unit and three fire trucks responded to the two-vehicle crash, which happened about 3pm.

Fire and Emergency said one of the cars' occupants was trapped and had to be freed.

Hato Hone St John said two people were taken by ambulance to Northland Base Hospital, one in a critical condition, the other in a serious condition.

A spokesperson said a third person had minor injuries.

The NZTA Journey Planner website said at 3.41pm that SH1 is closed between Jordan Valley Road and King Street in both directions.

Police advised that traffic is being diverted through King and George Streets, the old two-lane route through Hikurangi.

Motorists were advised to delay travel or take an alternative route.

The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.