The next planned event at Burt’s Trail Ride has been postponed after the death of a rider last weekend.

A man died after he crashed during a ride at the Mimiha Rd property near Matatā on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services arrived at the scene to find one person deceased.

Police are making inquiries to determine the circumstances of the crash.

A WorkSafe New Zealand spokesperson said WorkSafe was notified on Saturday.

“Our initial inquiries are ongoing into whether the crash was work-related – which will inform our next steps.”

The death has been referred to the coroner.

Following the incident, Burt’s Trail Ride posted on its Facebook page that the next trail ride had been postponed until March 28.

“It is with deep sadness that we advise our upcoming ride has been postponed following a serious accident on the track involving one of our riders.

“We need to thank all those riders on the track and in the carpark who were so understanding under difficult circumstances.

“This is a time for reflection, respect, and support for those affected.

“Out of consideration for the family, friends of the family, extended family and our wider riding community, we feel postponing our next ride is the right thing to do.”

Organisers also thanked Peak Safety Ltd (their medic), Matatā First Response, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew, Whakatāne police and St John Ambulance for their professionalism, care and support, along with their dedicated Burt’s Trail Ride track crew.

Burt’s Trail Rides holds regular dirt bike events on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, providing 28km of track through 607ha of forest and farmland that caters for riders of all skill levels, from novice to pro.