A person has died after crashing in the annual Mountain Thunder motorcycle event in inland Canterbury.
The police and emergency services were at the scene in Methven after the motorcyclist crashed shortly before 1pm today.
Police said the 25-year-old rider suffered critical injuries and died at the scene.
The event's organiser Sue van den Heuvel said all racing had was suspended and they were working to support the family.
According to the event's website the annual Easter Sunday race in the town centre attracts riders from across the country travelling at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour around a tight 1km circuit.
This year, nearly 140 bikes registered for the annual Easter weekend event.
Police said Barkers Road was due to be opened shortly.
Worksafe is being notified and the Serious Crash Unit is investigating.
