'Untold sadness' as NZ V8 driver dies [+pictures]

Mark Porter was married with a one-year-old son.

New Zealand driver Mark Porter died in Sydney last night from the massive injuries he suffered in a crash at Mt Panorama on Friday while preparing for the Bathurst 1000.

The 31-year-old, who was based on the Gold Coast, is survived by his wife, Adrienne, and one-year-old son Flynn. His parents, Robin and Robyn, flew from the Waikato to be at his bedside.

Porter was born in Hamilton. He and Australian driver David Clark were airlifted to hospital on Friday after Clark ploughed into Porter's stalled Holden Commodore at close to 180 km/h during a race at the Bathurst 1000 meeting.

While climbing the mountain on the 12th lap of the 14-lap development race, Porter suddenly spun his car sideways, stalled and was left stranded in the middle of the track in an area blinded to oncoming traffic.

Clark sent his Ford Falcon sideways in an attempt to escape collision but crashed directly into Porter's driver's side door.

Porter suffered serious head injuries and extensive internal fractures and had been on life support at Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital since the crash.

Last night his family announced his death with "untold sadness".

They conveyed their "heartfelt appreciation" for the efforts of medical crews at the track, Bathurst Base Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and those who transported him between the facilities.

"They gave Mark every chance at life, for which we thank them," their statement said.

"The family also expresses their appreciation of the efforts of the officials of V8 Supercars Australia, all of whom have done their utmost to support all those involved in this tragedy."

The family conveyed their best wishes to 28-year-old Clark for a complete recovery.

The Porter family also passed on thanks to all those who had conveyed wishes and prayers since Friday afternoon.

- NZPA