Man critical after stepping into path of petrol tanker

File photo.

A man is critically ill in Auckland's Middlemore Hospital after he stepped into the path of a petrol tanker near Maramarua, southeast of Auckland, last night.

Police said the 24-year-old was seen to drive his car out of a ditch on State Highway 2 about 10.50pm.

He then stopped and got out of his car and stepped onto the middle of the road where he was hit by the southbound tanker.

He was airlifted to Middlemore Hospital with serious head and chest injuries.

Alcohol appeared to be a factor, said police.

- NZPA