Federated farmers on the death of a farmer in Central Hawke’s Bay

Federated Farmers has expressed sympathy for a Central Hawke’s Bay family after the “tragic loss” of a young farmer in a quad bike accident.

Harry de Lautour, 33, was reported missing from a farm on Rotohiwi Rd, Flemington, around 1 p.m. Monday, after failing to return from regular farm work.

A search and rescue operation was launched and De Lautour was found shortly thereafter.

WorkSafe said the incident occurred on steep terrain.

Police said the exact circumstances have not yet been determined. WorkSafe has opened an investigation and the death has been referred to the coroner.

“The police extend our condolences to his family and friends.”

It is the second death on a farm in Hawke’s Bay in as many weeks and the fourth in New Zealand in the last month.

Two tractors involved in Te Kuiti and Hastings, and another involved a child in a dairy in Opotiki.

On September 17, a person was killed near Maraekakaho when a tractor likely slipped on steep terrain while feeding.

Police have not yet officially released the name of the person killed and WorkSafe is still investigating the incident.

Hawke’s Bay Federated Farmers President Jim Galloway said both deaths in the region were hard on families, friends and the farming community.

“We are very saddened by the tragic loss that this family and everyone involved is suffering.

“It has been a long and hard year, we have not only had a terrible drought to deal with, but also a global pandemic and strict legislation.

“These accidents add more stress and pain to rural communities.

“Everyone needs to be aware of the conditions and terrain they are working on and that they change, sometimes rapidly.

“The incident occurred on steep terrain, but we won’t know more until Worksafe has completed its investigation.”

WorkSafe Farm Engagement Leader Al McCone said farm slope surfaces are especially challenging at this time of year.

“It is a time of variable climate and growth, and variable soil surface conditions,” he said.

“There is also a shortage of contractors and some farmers will be doing tractor work that normally a contractor could do with more suitable equipment for the task.

“We cannot allow these challenges to contribute to loss of life or injury.”

McCone also said seat belts should always be worn when doing farm work.

“Mistakes happen and your seatbelt could be the difference between a sore neck and a broken one,” he added.