Driver dies after crashing into escaped bull

File photo / NZ Herald

A 23-year-old man who crashed into an escaped bull on Wanganui Flat Road on the West Coast late on Friday night died in Christchurch Hospital yesterday.

The dead man is Codey Peter Pink, who recently moved to Hari Hari.

Police said the accident happened about 11.30pm when the vehicle Mr Pink was driving, a Subaru station wagon, struck a cattle beast which had strayed onto the road.

Mr Pink was flown to Grey Base Hospital in the NZCC Rescue Helicopter in a critical condition.

He was later transferred to Christchurch Hospital where he died yesterday afternoon.

A 17-year-old passenger was uninjured. The bull did not survive the crash.

A serious crash investigation is under way and the death has been referred to the coroner.

Officer-in-charge of Hokitika police sergeant Andy Lyes, today described the accident as a "tragedy".

"We have yet to speak to anyone in relation to the crash.

"We need to talk to the owner of the bull and the passenger in the vehicle."

Mr Lyes also reminded farmers to ensure their fences were in good condition and to make sure that all gates were kept closed.