Hunter injured as 4x4 rolls down bank

A 19-year-old hunter was airlifted to Tauranga Hospital after the four-wheel-drive he and a friend were travelling in rolled down a steep bank last night.

A TrustPower TECT Rescue Helicopter spokesman said the pair were heading into the bush west of Matata evening when the vehicle slipped off the track, rolling several times.

The driver was uninjured but his passenger was thrown from the vehicle.

He was treated by St John ambulance staff for suspected head, shoulder and spinal injuries before being flown to Tauranga Hospital where he ws resported to be in a "moderate condition".

- NZPA