Skater dies during competition

An investigation is underway after the death of an 18-year-old during a longboard competition in Auckland.

The university student was one of about 200 who skate-boarded down a windy and steep road that leads to the Chelsea Sugar factory in Birkenhead.

Sergeant Andrew Wright says the teenager was travelling about 40 kilometres an hour when he lost control of his board, skidded, spun in the air and crashed on his head.

He was wearing a helmet, gloves and safety padding on his knees.

The police serious crash unit will investigate the death, before it's referred to the coroner.

Police say there's no issue with the organisation of an Auckland skate competition where the man was killed.

Sergeant Andrew Wright says organisers had been granted a permit to get the road closed off for the event.

There were also medics on site and safety marshals, including one in a vehicle that followed each group of skaters downhill.

The police serious crash unit is investigating.

Image: Colonial Road is a favourite for skaters (NZ Herald)