Motorbike crash cause still a mystery

Napier Taupo road was the scene of a fatal crash.

A teenager who died when his motorbike crashed on the Napier-Taupo road on Saturday afternoon has been identified as Cameron Pirie, of Wellington.

Mr Pirie, 19, was one of three Wellington motorcyclists on a round trip from Wellington through Hawke's Bay and Taupo and back to Wellington when the crash happened 1km east of the Te Haroto Summit, about 3.30pm on Saturday.

Hawke's Bay police officer Senior Constable Tim Rowe was about to leave for a major crash on the Napier-Wairoa road when he was redirected to the Te Haroto scene.

Mr Rowe said the two others were just in front of their fellow rider when the tragedy happened as Mr Pirie's red Yamaha XJ600 crashed through an Armco roadside barrier on a right-hand downhill bend with a 65km/h advisory sign.

They were able to rush to help their friend but, despite first aid, the young rider died at the scene.

The motorbike did not cross the road and no other vehicle is thought to have been involved.

Police have not established a cause and are still seeking witnesses, who should contact Mr Rowe though Hawke's Bay Police (ph 831 0700).

Mr Rowe said police were keen to speak to anyone who had seen the motorcyclists on the road before the crash or when the the crash occurred.