Motorcyclist killed in North Otago crash

Emergency services at the scene this afternoon. Photo / Hamish Maclean, Otago Daily Times

A motorcyclist has died after colliding with a car near Hampden in North Otago, closing part of State Highway 1.

The crash happened about 2.45pm, just north of Hampden, today.

Constable Neil Rushton, of Oamaru, said the motorcyclist was a man in his late 40s to mid-50s and died at the scene.

Two elderly people who were in the car have been taken to Oamaru Hospital by ambulance to be treated for whiplash.

The highway is closed to all traffic and police advise motorists it may remain shut for several hours.

Traffic was backed up 4km either side of the crash, and the road was not expected to re-open until 7pm.

Police said there are no alternative routes.

A car is in a ditch beside the road, but it is not yet clear what caused the crash, or how many vehicles are involved.

The police serious crash unit is investigating.