A motorcyclist on his way to a family wedding reception was killed following a crash on State Highway 35 opposite the Raukokere Marae, near Te Kaha, yesterday afternoon.

The motorcyclist who died at the scene was Don Henry Turei Junior, 38, from Tawera, says Detective Inspector Lew Warner.

Don and his brother, who was travelling on another motorbike, had left a family wedding at Raukokere Church and were on their way to the wedding reception when the crash occurred.

It's believed that Don was hit by a white Honda Odyssey-type van, which immediately left the scene of the crash.

Police continue to appeal for sightings of that vehicle driving in the area around 2-3pm yesterday.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or anyone who believes they may have information that would help with our investigation.

Please contact Bay of Plenty Police on 07 349 9554 if you can help.

Alternatively, information can also be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.