Farmer trampled by fleeing cow

A man has been trampled by a cow in Otaika.

An 85-year-old farmer was trampled by stock being loaded on to a cattle truck south of Whangarei.

Police and a St John Ambulance went to the rural property on Oaks Rd, Otaika, right, about 11am yesterday. Whangarei police spokeswoman Sarah Kennett said the man was in the process of loading cattle and when he went to close the door one of the cows bolted out of the truck.

He was bowled over and trampled by the fleeing beast. Mrs Kennett said the man suffered minor leg and facial injuries and was taken to Whangarei Hospital by ambulance.

WorkSafe New Zealand was advised of the incident.