Logging company ordered to pay more than $400,000 after worker crushed to death

5:08 pm on 17 February 2020

An Auckland logging company has to pay more than $400,000 after one its employees was crushed to death at work in 2017.

Wood logs.

Photo: 123RF

Guru NZ Limited pleaded guilty to charges laid by Worksafe after the death of Les Laing, 28.

Laing was moving logs in South Auckland, when he was crushed by heavy machinery and passed away.

Worksafe found a number of concerns and failings, and the company pleaded guilty to failing to ensure its staff safety.

At the Manukau District Court, Judge Earwaker handed down a fine of $330,000 dollars and reparation to the family of $110,000.

Earlier Laing's father, partner and sister spoke of their loss, and the impact it had on Laing's children and his partners' children.

Les was described as a passionate and talented man, who worked hard to provide for his family, and his loss has taken a significant toll on the family.