Karate instructor killed in Motueka crash

The young man killed in a motorcycle crash in Motueka has been remembered as ‘‘very polite and always keen to help’’, by a member of his karate school.

Thomas Andrew Armit, 19, was killed after his motorcycle collided with a car at the intersection of Thorp St and Glenaven Drive in Motueka on Monday morning.

Donna Bradley, a Senpai at Motueka Seido Karate, said he had been involved with the karate school for some time, and taught classes.

‘‘He and his younger brother had been promoted to black belt about three years ago.’’ she said.

‘‘He trained over here with us and had also trained in Stoke as well.’’

She said he had a good rapport with people of all ages who attended the school.

‘‘He was really skilled, awesome to watch when he was doing things by himself. Yeah, it’s sad.’’

Bradley said she had received calls from members of other karate schools around New Zealand, sharing their condolences and concern, and his death would have a big impact on their community.

She expected his funeral would be well-attended and said he would be greatly missed.

Yesterday, flowers and tributes had been laid at the corner where the crash happened.

A small cross had been erected, and a photo of Armit with a young woman was displayed above messages of love addressed to ‘‘Tommy’’, which were placed at the foot of the cross.

Emergency services were called around 5:50am on Monday when a car and motorcycle collided. A police statement said inquiries were continuing in relation to the details of the crash.

Police, firefighters and a St John Ambulance responded to the crash.

The driver of the car was taken to hospital for assessment following the crash and it was understood his injuries were not serious.