Tourist dies after crash into trees

A 38-year-old male tourist is dead after apparently driving off the road and smashing into trees near Marton early today.

Constable Karl Williams of the Marton police said there were no other vehicles involved in the smash, which happened on State Highway 3 just after 3am.

"The man died at the scene -- we think he was found straight away," Mr Williams said.

Police knew the identity and nationality of the victim but were not prepared to reveal any details until consular officials and family members had been informed, he said.

State Highway 3 was closed for four hours while the serious crash investigation unit attended the scene, but re-opened at 7am.

- NZPA