Hawke's Bay Police say a crash which killed a keen motorcyclist in Napier was a tragic case involving an inexperienced overseas driver.

Chinese woman Jieling Xiao has today admitted to dangerous driving causing the death of 23-year-old Rhys Middleton.

The 27-year-old is in New Zealand on a 12-month work visa and appeared in the Napier District Court this morning, supported by her home-stay family.

The car she was driving crashed into Mr Middleton on State Highway Five, north of Napier in February.

Mr Middleton was travelling with five motorcycle companions, including his father and brother,  and was returning home following a gathering of bike enthusiasts in Havelock North.

Senior Constable Cory Ubels said the driver had had her full driver's licence in China for six years but had very limited experience driving in 100 kilometre speed zones on single lane rural roads.

Cory Ubels said she had been studying English in China for four years.

He said there was no malice and she is very sorry.