Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information should contact Detective Alex Simister by phoning 105, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A police spokesperson said the crash occurred when two Hawke's Bay men were travelling back from a day at the beach.
The driver appeared to have lost control of the ute, which rolled and landed in a paddock, the spokesperson said.
"The passenger took the brunt of the impact and has died as a result."
