An 8-year-old cyclist has been hit and killed by a truck at a New Plymouth intersection this afternoon.

Police said the cyclist and a car collided at the corner of Rata St and Miro St, Inglewood.

Emergency services were called about 3.30pm, a police spokeswoman said.

The Serious Crash Unit has been advised. Miro St was closed to traffic and diversions were in place, she said. Motorists are being asked to be patient as delays are expected.

A fire truck is blocking State Highway 3 and fire crew members are directing all traffic from New Plymouth off the main road.