A motorbike rider killed in a crash at the Methven Easter street races has been named.

Ruaraidh McLeod, 25, from Christchurch, died at the Mountain Thunder event on Saturday.

McLeod was competing in the race when he crashed and suffered critical injuries about 12.50pm. He later died at the scene.

In a post on Facebook, organisers of the event said it was with regret that they confirmed the fatal crash.

"Methven Lions would like to offer their sincere condolences to the family of the bereaved man.

"We confirm that we are currently cooperating fully with the Christchurch police serious crash unit."

On Saturday, spectator Paul MacDonald said the race was stopped after the crash and there was an announcement on the event's loudspeaker.

"The announcer was very emotional. He was crying," he said.

"He was announcing there had been a serious accident and the event had been stopped."

The matter was now before the coroner and McLeod's family had requested privacy.