Armed police tonight blocked off roads in Otara, Auckland after an incident in which St John says three people suffered gunshot wounds.

Police were called to the scene at 7.05pm, where they cordoned off Preston and Kudu Road.

Three males who suffered gunshot wounds were taken to Middlemore Hospital.

Police say one male has moderate injuries and may require surgery, while the two other males have superficial injuries.

People at the scene told 1 NEWS that they heard gunshots and a group of boys running away.