Motorcyclist hurt in Fordlands, Rotorua crash remains in critical condition

The crash happened on Bellingham Cres in Fordlands. Photo / Andrew Warner

A motorcyclist remains in a critical condition in Waikato Hospital after a crash involving a car in Fordlands on Sunday night while not wearing a helmet.

Police were called about 7.30pm on Sunday after reports the motorcyclist was injured on Bellingham Cres.

Police have confirmed he was riding a dirt bike and was not wearing a helmet or any protective clothing.

A police spokeswoman said no other details surrounding the crash could be revealed until after the Serious Crash Unit has finished its investigation.

A Waikato Hospital spokeswoman said this morning the man was still in a critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit.

Meanwhile, the police spokeswoman said it was vital motorcyclists wore appropriate riding safety gear.

“The road surface is not forgiving in a crash. Riders are much more vulnerable road users, so the more you can do to protect yourself – like wearing appropriate safety gear – the better.”

The spokeswoman said also, in general terms, it was important to remember it was illegal to ride a dirt bike on the road unless it was roadworthy, with a current warrant of fitness and registration.

“Some of the bikes we’re seeing are dangerously ill-equipped to be ridden off the road, let alone illegally on the road.”

Clarification

The description of the crash in this story has been amended as the circumstances remain under investigation.