New Zealand

Child dies after quad bike rolls on farm

15:45 pm on 9 September 2024

Stock photo. Emergency services were called to a Kaihere farm on Saturday after reports a quad bike had rolled. Photo: 123rf.com

WorkSafe has opened an investigation into the death of a child in a quad bike accident in Hauraki at the weekend.

Emergency services were called to a Kaihere farm at about 3.20pm on Saturday afternoon, after reports a quad bike had rolled.

The child was found to be deceased when first responders arrived.

A WorkSafe spokesperson said it was too early to determine the cause, but investigators were working to establish the circumstances and factors involved.

They called the death a tragedy.

"Our heartfelt sympathy is with the whānau as they come to terms with their loss."

The spokesperson said it was exactly a month since WorkSafe noted the deaths of four farmers in a spate of quad bike roll-overs.

"Farm vehicles present a well-known risk to rural New Zealand, and we again urge farmers to assess their terrain and tasks as a top priority before getting on a quad bike.

"We strongly recommend installing a crush protection or rollover protection device on quad bikes, always using a helmet, and ensuring the driver is competent."

Police said in this case the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination and enquiries were ongoing.