Motorcyclist killed in crash

TRAGEDY: Emergency personnel watch as the Life Flight Trust rescue helicopter lands uphill from a fatal crash on Rimutaka Hill Rd on Wednesday evening.

Police have yet to release the name of a 37-year-old Paraparaumu motorcyclist who died in a motorcycle versus car collision on the Rimutaka Hill Rd on Wednesday.

The crash occurred several kilometres from Featherston about 7.30pm.

Distraught fellow motorcyclists watched as emergency services worked non-stop for 40 minutes to try and save the man's life.

The Life Flight Trust's rescue helicopter was called in but the man died at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle was unhurt but in shock.

The crash closed the Rimutaka Hill Rd for about three hours, prompting many to turn back to Wairarapa or Hutt.

Wellington police communications manager Nick Bolm said police needed to contact family members before releasing the name.