Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment northern region health and safety manager John Howard said the "tragic accident'' served as a warning for all employers and employees carrying out hazardous work.
"There is simply no room for complacency,'' he said.
"It was this employee's right to return home safe and well to his loved ones at the end of the working day. And this would have been possible if Fowlers Machinery had in place safe operating procedures for lifting and supporting forklifts, and ensured all workers were trained to follow these.''
Mr Howard said a "safety first'' attitude and culture would have prevented the death.
"It would have ensured the company used the correct equipment for the job, including appropriate support blocks, wheel chocks, and blocks or chains for securing the elevated mast.''
