Motorcyclist found dead in ditch

A motorcyclist was this afternoon found dead in a ditch in Patumahoe, in the Franklin district south of Auckland.

Police said a horse rider spotted a man's body lying on the side of Sedgebrook Road and contacted emergency services about 2.10pm.

Patumahoe Rd is closed between Hunter and Gun Club roads and traffic is being diverted on to Union Rd as police examine the scene.

It is not yet known how the crash occurred and it is possible it was some hours before he was found, say police.

Police are trying to identify the man so they can notify next-of-kin before his name will be made public.

The Manukau-based Serious Crash Unit are investigating the incident.

- NZ Herald staff