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.
