A 21-year-old man has been arrested following a traffic incident in Kawerau this morning.

A person was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after being struck by a car on River Road.

Police were alerted to the crash at 10.50am this morning and police say the car left the scene immediately following the incident.

The 21-year-old male is set to appear in Whakatāne District Court tomorrow charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

'A scene examination has now been completed and the road re-opened,” says a police spokesperson.

'Police thank those members of the public who have provided information and CCTV footage to Police so far.

'Anyone who has not yet spoken to Police and has any information which may assist is asked to get in touch by calling 105 and quoting event number P047996952.

'As this matter is now before the Court, we are unable to comment further.”