A cyclist on a training ride is in a critical condition after he lost control and went under an oncoming van.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter went to the aid of a man in his 70s who was badly injured when his bike collided with a van on Cove Rd, north of Mangawhai Heads yesterday morning.
Intensive care paramedic Chris Deacon said the local man was enjoying a training ride around 11am when the accident happened.
It is understood he was travelling down a hill when he lost control and his bike collided with a van coming in the opposite direction.
Despite wearing a helmet, the man suffered major head injuries and suspected chest injuries.
