Cyclist dies after crash on rural Northland road

A cyclist was hit on Kaiikanui Rd, Helena Bay about 11.15 am on February 6. Photo / Denise Piper

A person has died after a serious crash in Helena Bay, northeast of Whangārei.

Police were called to the crash on Kaiikanui Rd, at about 11.15am on Thursday.

Police initially said a pedestrian died in the crash but later clarified the crash was between a cyclist and a car, and the cyclist died.

The road was closed while emergency services worked at the scene but has since reopened.

Inquiries to determine the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

Kaiikanui Rd is an unsealed and narrow rural road. Part of the road is used by Te Araroa Trail walkers.

Kaiikanui Rd is a narrow, unsealed rural road near Mimiwhangata Coastal Park. Photo / Denise Piper

Earlier on Waitangi Day, emergency services also attended a crash at nearby Whakapara.

The single-car crash on State Highway 1, north of Hikurangi, occurred about 7am.

Police, Fire and Emergency and Hato Hone St John attended, although no one was hurt. KiwiRail was also informed after the car ended up on the railway lines.

Further north, police also attended a single-vehicle crash in Haruru, near Waitangi about 5am.

One person suffered moderate injuries but the road was cleared by about 5.40am, police said.

Before Waitangi Day, Northland police urged motorists to prioritise safety.

Northland road policing manager Inspector Anne-Marie Fitchett said road users could expect to see patrols anywhere and at any time to deter everyone from any risky behaviours.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.