A serious car crash near Waipu that killed a 6-year-old boy in the early hours of Saturday morning, has taken Northland's road toll for the year to 13.

The boy died at the scene, despite efforts to resuscitate him, an emergency services spokesman said.

Two of the other passengers were treated at the scene for minor injuries, and one was taken to Whangarei Hospital with minor injuries.

The Crash took place on State Highway One, near Shoemaker Rd, and is believed to be a two-car crash.

The driver was believed to have fallen asleep at the wheel, authorities said.

Both lanes of the highway were closed for several hours while the Serious Crash Unit examined the scene, but both lanes are now open.