A section of Auckland’s Southern Motorway is expected to remain closed for several hours this afternoon after a serious truck, van and car smash which reportedly left one person critically injured.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is advising motorists to avoid the Papakura and Takanini areas.

“Due to the complexity of the crash and the recovery of the vehicles, all northbound lanes are expected to remain closed for the next few hours,” said an NZTA spokesperson.

“There is significant congestion so please delay any travel in the area if you can otherwise expect lengthy delays.”

Police responded to the three-vehicle crash between Papakura and Takanini around 9.40am.

All northbound lanes were closed at 10am but police briefly opened one lane earlier to allow traffic stuck within the closure to pass.

Motorists are advised to divert via Great South Rd through Papakura and Drury as emergency services work at the scene. Southbound lanes remain open.

Police said early indications suggested one person was critically injured.

St John said it responded to the crash with six vehicles but transport to hospital was not required.

Traffic was gridlocked on the motorway between Takanini and Drury, with motorists sitting in an 8km queue.

The police serious crash unit was advised.

A large truck could be seen parked to the side of the motorway and people were in the mangroves next to it. Photos suggested a car came off the road.

The crash scene on Auckland's Southern Motorway.