A Dunedin police officer has been hit by a van while attending a car crash

The female officer was hit by a courier vehicle about 10 last night while she attended the crash on the Southern Motorway.

Acting Inspector Craig Dinnissen says the officer had her car nearby and was wearing hi-vis.

He says they're still investigating, but it's believed the van had to brake and swerve suddenly to avoid hitting another car.

Dinnissen says the officer got minor injuries and is recovering at home.