Forestry worker dies after vehicle roll at Central Hawke’s Bay homestead

Forestry is one of New Zealand's most dangerous industries. Photo / NZME

A forestry worker has died after becoming trapped under a vehicle at a homestead in Central Hawke’s Bay.

Police responded to Tourere Road, Flemington, about 1.30pm on Monday following a report that a vehicle had rolled trapping the person underneath.

A police spokeswoman said inquiries were ongoing into the incident. WorkSafe is investigating.

A WorkSafe spokeswoman said they had opened an investigation into the forestry-related death and its inspectors had attended the scene.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the friends, whānau and colleagues of the victim.

“Forestry is one of the four most dangerous industries in Aotearoa, and is a priority sector under our new strategy.

“The fatality rate in forestry is about 20 times higher than the average for all sectors.”

Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and would be referred to the Coroner.

Firefighters responded to the scene to help extricate the person. A Hato Hone St John ambulance spokesperson said one ambulance and one helicopter had responded to the scene.