Police notebook: Motorcyclist in ICU after crashing without a helmet south of Rotorua

A motorcyclist who was involved in a highspeed crash remains in a serious condition in Waikato Hospital.

Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Brendon Keenan said the single-vehicle crash happened south of Rotorua, near Waiotapu, on Saturday.

"The motorcycle was overtaking another vehicle when it lost control. We think speed was involved."

He said the female passenger, who was on the back of the motorcycle, suffered serious injuries.

"She had no helmet on and now she is in the Waikato Hospital ICU in a serious condition."

The incident came in a busy week for police who ticketed more than 200 drivers for breaking the speed limit.

Too many drivers not wearing a seatbelt
Over the last week, Rotorua's road policing unit ticketed 387 drivers.

Keenan said "alarmingly" 66 of those were for people not wearing a seatbelt.

RIDS, which stands for restraints, impairment, distraction and speed, made up more than 300 of the offences police stopped drivers for in the last week.

Police are focusing on driver distractions and restraints. Over the last week, 20 drivers were caught using their cellphone.

Stolen cars
Police are seeking four stolen vehicles.

A white 1999 Toyota Hilux, registration YE9958, taken from Malfroy Rd, Victoria, on Monday.

A silver 2005 Holden Commodore, registration CUT634, taken from Tania Cres, Western Heights on Monday.

A black 2000 Mazda Tribute, registration FJF229, taken from Karamea St, Murupara.

A brown 2005 Toyota Landcruiser Prado, registration CMK297, taken from Hamurana Rd, Hamurana on Thursday.

Any information can be given to Rotorua police on (07) 348 0099 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on (0800 555 111).