Council charged over landfill death

Wellington City Council has been charged over the death of a worker who was crushed when his truck tumbled down a bank at the southern landfill in December.

Brian Taurerewa, 55, was carrying out excavation work on a steep track in poor weather when the 40-tonne truck lost traction and slid to the bottom of the hill.

The truck's cab collapsed, crushing Mr Taurerewa, who had worked for the council for seven years.

The Labour Department has now charged the council with failing to take all practicable steps to ensure the safety of its employees while at work, The Dominion Post reported.

The case will be heard in Wellington District Court on November 3.

A spokesman for the council said there would be no comment while the case was before the courts.

- NZPA