UPDATED 9.47AM: A police dog handler has been bashed by two men in South Auckland.

The attack came during a routine vehicle stop on Bairds Road in Otahuhu, just before 4am.

As the officer spoke to the driver, two men got out of the car and knocked him unconscious.

A passing truck driver scared off the attackers, and they drove off in a green Toyota Alteeza.

An ambulance treated the officer and took him to hospital, where he's in a moderate condition.

His attackers are described as being of average height and build.

One of them was wearing a black t-shirt with white writing on it.

Anyone who may have seen the car or has any information about the offenders is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.