A child has been seriously injured in a crash involving a vehicle and two pedestrians in central Christchurch this afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the corner of Fitzgerald Avenue and Hereford Street around 2.15pm.

A police spokeswoman said emergency crews were responding to the incident.

Initial indications suggest the injuries are serious, she said.

Traffic management is in place, and motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

The Serious Crash Unit has been called to the scene.