Rangiuru Rd fatality: motorcyclist mourned

The crash happened on Rangiuru Rd between Brown Rd and Malcolm Ave. Image/Google Maps

Relatives and friends are mourning the loss of a young local father following a tragic crash in Te Puke.

Kieron Tiare Apanui Laing lost his life after his motorcycle and a car collided on Rangiuru Rd around 7pm on Friday Police said he was 29 years old.

Rangiuru Rd was closed at the Te Puke Highway end between Malcolm Ave and Brown Rd while fire, police and ambulance attended.

Mr Laing died at the scene.

It is understood he lived in the Rangiuru area and that he was a father.

Tributes flowed quickly for a man one commenter on the Bay of Plenty Times Facebook page described as "boisterous, happy and full of life".

"I remember you since a baby you were always such a nice, respectful, handsome boy."

A "sad loss of such a young life", said another commenter.

Police said their thoughts were with Mr Laing's family.

A police officer whoattended the scene said the investigation into the circumstances of the crash was ongoing and the Serious Crash Unit was also investigating.