New Zealand soldier hurt in Afghanistan blast

A New Zealand soldier was hurt in an explosion at a Coalition base in Afghanistan today.

A Defence Force spokesman said the soldier suffered lower body injuries while ordinance was being moved for disposal. An explosive device detonated during handling.

The soldier was part of a New Zealand Special Air Service deployment on operations in Afghanistan.

He was treated at the scene and evacuated to a Coalition medical facility. The soldier's injuries are not life threatening. His next of kin have been informed.

No further information was available.

- NZPA