Car crush victim well-known builder

File photo

The man killed after he was crushed under the vehicle he was working on was a well-known North Canterbury builder, police say.

Kevin Ward, 64, was found dead behind his home on a lifestyle block in Swannanoa, about 30km northwest of Christchurch, after emergency services were called about 2.12pm yesterday.

He was killed after the Toyota Land Cruiser four-wheel-drive he was working beneath fell on him, Sergeant Colin Stewart, of Rangiora police, said.

"He had it supported by some timber, and unfortunately the vehicle slipped off," he told NZPA.

Mr Ward is survived by a wife and three children.

"It's just a tragedy for the family," Mr Stewart said.

A funeral will be held on Saturday.

His death has been referred to the coroner.

- NZPA