A motorcyclist is dead after colliding with a utility vehicle near Whiritoa this afternoon.
Sergeant Dave Litton of the Waihi police said emergency services were called to the scene about 5km northeast of Whiritoa on SH25 shortly before 2pm.
While police are working to formally identify the cause of the collision, Mr Litton said it appeared likely the motorcyclist had been riding north on SH25 towards Whangamata when he has lost control on a moderate left hand bend.
"Crossing the centreline the motorcyclist has collided with an oncoming Toyota Surf utility and suffered fatal injuries. The two occupants of the Surf were uninjured but understandably quite shaken up."
Mr Litton said the 48-year-old Katikati motorcyclist had been riding with a friend after setting off on their bikes for Whangamata from Athenree.
