A motorcyclist has died after crashing into a ute near Whiritoa in Coromandel.

The 48-year-old motorcyclist from Katikati was driving north along State Highway 25 when he lost control on a bend, crossed the centre line and smashed head-on into the vehicle on Friday afternoon, a statement from police says.

The man had been riding in convoy from Athenree in the Bay of Plenty to Whangamata with a friend who was also on a motorcycle.

The two occupants of the ute were unhurt but shaken, police said.

Police are advising motorists to expect delays after SH25 was closed for almost three hours while the crash was cleared.