Farmer rescues teen from fiery crash

A nearby farmer heard the crash and came outside to find the vehicle on fire. He then pulled the unconscious driver from the burning vehicle before emergency services arrived. Photo / File

The heroic actions of a farmer who pulled a 17-year-old man from a burning car following a crash, have been praised by police.

The crash occurred on State Highway 2, north of Eketahuna, at around 8.30pm last night.

The police, Fire Service and ambulance were all called to the scene.

Initial reports suggested the vehicle had drifted off the road and onto a grass verge, before hitting a culvert, police said.

A nearby farmer heard the crash and came outside to find the vehicle on fire. He then pulled the unconscious driver from the burning vehicle before emergency services arrived.

His actions were commended by police, who said he put himself at risk to save the driver.

"I want to specifically recognise the farmer's quick thinking as I have absolutely no doubt his actions saved the drivers life," said Sergeant Glenn Ryan.

"It was his risky and heroic actions that saved this driver from any further harm."

Manawatu Police assisted by the serious crash unit have launched an investigation to determine the factors that lead to the crash.

The man is in a stable condition in Palmerston North hospital.