Five people have been injured after a two-car crash north of Auckland yesterday afternoon, which closed SH1 near Wellsford.

Emergency services were called to the scene after the crash at 2.20pm at the south end of Wellsford.

Two rescue helicopters responded.

Three people in a serious condition were flown to Auckland Hospital and two people in a moderate condition were taken to North Shore Hospital via ambulance, police said.

Traffic was diverted off the main highway through Davies Rd and SH16, but Waka Kotahi said at 4.40pm the road is likely to reopen soon.