At approximately 10.20am this morning a motorcyclist travelling south along State Highway 2 between Dannevirke and Woodville (near to Corby Road) lost control of his machine, crossed the centre line and left the road on the right hand side.

An oncoming car narrowly missed colliding with the machine, but the rider suffered extensive injuries as his machine overbalanced on the grass verge.

The rider died at the scene.

Enquiries are at an early stage with members of the Police Serious Crash Unit conducting examinations of the scene and the motorcycle.

The rider is a 54 year old man from Carterton.

Any witnesses should contact Police at Dannevirke on 06 374 4500.