Motorcyclist dies in crash that closes motorway

A motorcyclist is dead after a crash on Auckland's Southern Motorway early today.

Police said the crash took place in the Papakura area, and has caused the northbound lanes of the motorway to be closed between Papakura and Manurewa.

The motorcyclist hit the wire median barrier in the middle of the motorway and debris was spread over a wide area, said Inspector Gary Hill.

The motorway was closed for several hours until a single lane was opened later in the morning.

Mr Hill said the motorcyclist died at the scene but his name and other details would not be released until possibly later today.

- NZPA