A Fulton Hogan worker has been crushed under a heavy roller at a pipeline project near Nelson.
Police said Kerry Ferris, 52, died after the 12 tonne roller he was driving rolled down a bank into a river bed at about 3pm yesterday.
He was killed instantly when he was thrown from the vehicle and crushed, police said.
A police spokeswoman said heavy machinery had to be called in to help recover his body.
A statement from Fulton Hogan said Mr Ferris died while working on the Maitai Pipeline duplication project.
The company was "actively and cooperatively" working with authorities investigating the death, it said.
"Our key focus at this time is around providing complete support to the family and workmates of the deceased. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this indescribably difficult time.
"Fulton Hogan prides itself on its strong safety culture and as such our entire business is devastated by this very sad event," the statement said.
The Labour Department confirmed it was investigating the incident.
