Motorcyclist dies after hitting tree at Brightwater near Nelson

A motorcyclist is in a critical condition after an accident near Brightwater, where serious fires broke out (above) in February. Photo / Mark Mitchell, File

A motorcyclist has died after hitting a tree at Brightwater near Nelson this afternoon.

A Police spokesman said emergency services were responding to a serious crash at the intersection of Teapot Valley Rd and Waimea West Rd, Brightwater.

"A motorcyclist died at the scene," he said.

"Police were alerted to the single vehicle crash around 3.20pm.

"The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

"The road is closed and motorists are asked to avoid the area."

The accident occurred in the same area where a serious fire threatened homes in February.