Motorcyclist dead after crash on State Highway 3 near Whanganui

Police were alerted to the crash just before 5.20am on Tuesday. Photo / Bevan Conley

A motorcyclist involved in serious crash with a truck on State Highway 3 near Whanganui this morning has died.

Police confirmed shortly before midday on Tuesday that the motorcyclist had died as a result of the incident.

Emergency services were alerted just before 5.20am on Tuesday to the crash between Whangaehu Village Rd and Ratana Rd.

Police are appealing for information from the public.

In particular, they would like to speak to the occupants of two vehicles that were believed to have been following the motorbike involved in the crash, and may have witnessed the incident.

Anyone who saw the motorcycle travelling between Whanganui and Palmerston North, or a logging truck with an empty trailer travelling between Turakina and Whanganui, between about 5am and 5.15am is asked to contact police on 105 and quote event number P045352230.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said SH3 was closed between Warrengate Rd and Turakina Valley Rd until late morning on Tuesday with no detours available.

The Serious Crash Unit was at the scene undertaking an investigation prior to the road reopening.