Police say a crash near Te Kaha that killed a motorcyclist is being treated as suspicious.
The crash occurred on State Highway 35 opposite the Raukokere Marae, near Te Kaha, in the Eastern Bay of Plenty yesterday afternoon.
Senior Sergeant Karl Konlechner said this evening a man aged 40 died at the scene. No further details about the man could be released.
Police were called about 2.40pm to reports of a crash involving a motorcycle and a van.
An initial investigation was carried out by the Serious Crash Unit and the crash was now being treated as suspicious, Detective Inspector Lew Warner, Bay of Plenty field crime manager said in a statement.
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash, or has any information, to come forward.
Police are also after any sightings of a White Honda Odyssey-type van driving in the area around 2pm to 3pm.
Anyone with information can contact Bay of Plenty police on (07) 349 9554 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.