Worker dies after being trapped under falling pallets in Auckland's Onehunga

Monday, 26 September 2016

A man has died in a workplace accident after multiple pallets fell on him in Auckland's Onehunga.

The incident occurred about 11.30am on Monday at the transport and logistics company Toll New Zealand on Neilson St. 

St John Ambulance spokesman Robbie Walker said a 47-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Paramedics worked on him for some time after he was freed, but couldn't save his life, Walker said.

Toll spokesman Royce Christie said the company extended its sympathies to family and friends of the deceased.

'Toll is deeply saddened that the incident has resulted in the death of a Toll employee at the site,' Christie said.

'Our priority now is to offer support to the family of our employee and to our people at the site.'

Police, the Fire Service and St John Ambulance all attended the incident.

Police said just after midday: 'It appears a man has been trapped under pallets and has died at the scene.

'Police are investigating, however as this looks to be a workplace accident, WorkSafe New Zealand will be advised.'

WorkSafe confirmed they were notified of the incident and said they were making initial inquiries.

The area has been closed off pending further investigation and Toll was assisting ongoing investigations.