Motorcyclist dies following collision with car on State Highway 1 in Otago, road closed

A motorcyclist has died following a collision with a car on State Highway 1 near the Waitaki Bridge in Otago.

The incident was reported to police around 11.50pm and a section of the highway is currently closed, a police spokesman said.

He said the serious crash took place north of Waitaki Bridge, which is now closed, and diversions have been put in place.

Emergency services ask motorists in the area take care and avoid the scene if possible.

Two more people have also suffered moderate injuries in separate crashes today.

This included a female motorbike rider, who crashed into a ditch on Whangaripo Valley Rd, near Wellsford, at midday.

The woman was initially trapped under her bike and ended up with moderate injuries, a police spokesman said.

Fire and ambulance crews also attended.

In a separate crash nearby, a car with one person inside rolled on Mangawhai Rd.

The driver received moderate injuries and was taken to Whangārei hospital.