Man charged after fatal motorcycle and car collision in Rotorua
Tuesday 29 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
A 72-year-old man has been charged with two counts of driving with excess breath alcohol causing death. The charges follow an August 14 crash near the intersection of Te Ngae Road and Rotokawa Road in Ōwhata, which resulted in the deaths of a motorcycle rider and passenger.
Key facts
5 facts
- A 72-year-old man faces two charges of driving with excess breath alcohol causing death
- The crash occurred on August 14 at approximately 9.40pm
- The collision took place near Te Ngae Rd and Rotokawa Rd in Ōwhata, Rotorua
- The motorcycle rider and passenger died at the scene
- A third person was treated by paramedics and hospitalised
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
A 72-year-old man faces two charges of driving with excess breath alcohol causing death following a motorcycle crash in Rotorua. The man is scheduled to appear in Rotorua District Court this Thursday.
The incident occurred around 9.40pm on August 14 near the intersection of Te Ngae Rd and Rotokawa Rd in Ōwhata. A motorcycle and a car were involved in the collision.
The motorcycle's rider and passenger died at the scene. A third person was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital.
Senior Sergeant John Stapleford stated that the investigation remains ongoing.
Where reports differ
- One report identifies the passenger as a pillion passenger, while the other refers to them as a passenger
Compiled from reports by Stuff and NZ Herald.
