Man nearly amputates finger while collecting paua on Mayor Island

A man was injured while collecting paua on Mayor Island. Photo/supplied

A man was flown to hospital after nearly amputating his middle finger while diving at Mayor Island this afternoon.

The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was called to Mayor Island just after 1pm today after a 20-year-old man injured himself while collecting paua.

A helicopter spokesman said the man was diving for paua when a paua he picked up sucked back onto the rock.

"The man yanked his finger out resulting in the near amputation of his right middle finger," the spokesman said.

The man was flown to Tauranga Hospital for treatment.