Waimate Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Duncan Lyall also knew the man and described him as a "good fellow", but declined to comment further.
A family member of the man contacted by the Otago Daily Times yesterday declined to comment.
The man's name and age are yet to be formally released.
The incident happened on private property near Timaru Rd, between Deep Creek Rd and Champions Rd.
Police were notified of the incident at 5.15pm, a spokesman said.
Fire and ambulance services also attended the scene.
WorkSafe has been advised and the death will be referred to the Coroner.