A Levin woman struck from behind by a car yesterday was found lying seriously injured on the roadside, with no sign of the vehicle or the dog she was walking.

The 54-year-old was walking on Heatherlea East Rd with her dog Apollo about 4.30pm on Sunday. It was a route she had taken regularly for more than a decade.

A family spokesperson said she had no recollection of the incident, remembering only that she was out walking the dog before blacking out.

Two motorists came across the woman and alerted emergency services about 5.20pm. They also used her phone to contact her husband, who was on the scene soon after.

A photo of the missing dog has been shared on social media in hope that he might be found.

Inquiries were under way to find those involved and determine the circumstances of the crash, a police spokesperson said.

The woman was taken to Palmerston North Hospital by Hato Hone St John in a serious condition.

The Levin woman hit by a car while walking her dog near Levin yesterday is in Palmerston North Hospital and was to undergo surgery today.

She was to undergo surgery today for a suspected broken hip, her family said.

“She is very battered and bruised. She’s has been hit by a car, put it that way.”

The Levin woman hit by a car while walking her dog near Levin yesterday is still in Palmerston North Hospital and will undergo surgery today.

The family spokesperson hoped any witnesses might come forward with information, or that someone with cameras would have footage of cars that were in the area at the time.

“Hopefully someone knows something.”

Apollo still has not been found. He had become detached from his lead, but would still be wearing a black harness.

A motorist on the scene soon after emergency services arrived believed there were clear tyre marks where the woman was being treated for her injuries.

He understood she had been walking on the opposite side of the road to the car, suggesting the vehicle had crossed the centre line.

The semi-rural road is on the northern outskirts of the town.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information that could help inquiries, can call 105, using the reference number 241103/7573.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.