Motorcyclist killed in Bay crash

A 25-year-old motorcyclist killed in an alcohol-related crash in the Bay of Plenty had been told not to drive, police said.

Whakatane Police's serious crash unit are investigating the fatal crash that happened on Saturday about 11.30pm on SH2, near Kutarere in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Initial inquiries indicated the rider had consumed alcohol at a private address and was told by others there not to drive, police said.

The rider, who wasn't wearing a helmet, travelled about 500m and failed to negotiate a sweeping right-hand bend, before colliding with an armco barrier and suffering fatal injuries.

It was the second fatal motorcycle crash in the Eastern Bay of Plenty this year where alcohol was a major contributing factor, and was the sixth fatal crash involving alcohol.

Bay of Plenty police officer Sergeant Ray Wylie was "very disappointed" at the death rate.

"Unfortunately, despite all the advertising, crashes and apprehensions, drink driving is still a major problem in this area, just as it across New Zealand."

The name of the dead man would be released once next of kin had been advised.