Second quad bike accident in 9 days

Another Central Hawke's Bay farm worker has been killed in a quad bike accident - the second in nine days.

On Thursday, 62-year-old Vaughan Reid died on a farm near Takapau.

Police said he had been spraying weeds at the back of a farm on a quad bike, and when he did not return home a co-worker went to look for him.

He was found pinned underneath his quad bike against a fence.

Mr Reid left behind four daughters, and a large extended family. A family member said the area where the accident occurred would be blessed today.

His funeral will be held tomorrow at 2pm at Stonehaven, Waipukurau.

On December 8 Waipukarau man Aussie Richmond Tuhou, 69, was killed following injuries sustained in a quad bike accident.

A search was conducted of the Kiloran Farm in Omakere after the farm worker did not return from his daily work.

Mr Tuhou died as a result of injuries received in the accident. His body was located shortly after a search of the property.

Federated Farmers president Will Foley said two accidents in the short space of time was a real shock.

"There will be a lot of pain and heartache for their families."

He said at this time of year a lot of farmers were rushing around to get everything done before Christmas.

"My message to farmers is to slow down, think about what they're doing, and take their time to ensure they get home to their families."

WorkSafe New Zealand had been notified and were investigating both of the fatal incidents.

A WorkSafe spokesman said it was constantly working towards improving safety on farms, in particular the safe use of quad bikes.

To help create awareness about farm safety, WorkSafe New Zealand developed its Safer Farms programme in consultation with farmers, farm workers and leading sector organisations.

Constable Andy Walker said Police urged all farm managers and owners to educate their staff on quad bike safety.

"This type of accident is all too common and in many cases, can be avoided with an increased awareness of safety issues.

"Farms are a designated workplace and it is up to employers to make sure their staff are educated and equipped to do their job properly. Anyone riding a quad bike needs to be acutely aware of the possible dangers and risks to their safety," Mr Walker said.