Accidents kill two motorcyclists

Firefighters clean up after a motorcyclist was killed in a collision at the Papakura offramp yesterday. Photo / Natalie Slade

Two motorcycle riders are dead after separate collisions yesterday.

A truck and motorcycle collided at the intersection of the Papakura offramp northbound and Hingaia Rd about 8am, killing the rider.

The second fatal accident occurred just after midday in a remote part of southern Hawkes Bay.

Senior Sergeant Dylan Earle, of Dannevirke police, said a 56-year-old Upper Hutt man died at the scene when he lost control after rounding a corner. He crashed through a fence and flew over a bank and into some trees.

Mr Earle said the serious crash unit was investigating.

"It is very early on in the investigation but all factors including road, speed, alcohol and vehicle tests will be conducted."

The rider was not named because his wife and other next of kin were still being informed last night.

A third accident in Wanganui - again involving a motorcycle rider - has left a man in critical condition in Wanganui Hospital.

One of the 35-year-old's legs was badly broken and the other was amputated below the knee. Whanganui District Health Board spokeswoman Sue Campion said the man also had internal injuries and needed further surgery.

No other vehicles were involved in the accident.

Meanwhile, the collision of two trucks just north of Mangaweka completely blocked State Highway 1 from about 2am yesterday.

One of the trucks was carrying solvent which spilled onto the road along with diesel that leaked from one of the trucks.

The Fire Service Hazardous Chemical Unit was required to clear the road before it could be reopened several hours later.

A crane was used to remove the wreckage from the road.