Teen loses part of hand in explosion

An Auckland teenager has lost part of at least two fingers after an unknown object exploded in his hand at a Wairarapa farm today.

The 17-year-old youth picked up "something that looked like a bullet cartridge" when it exploded in his hand about 2pm, Life Flight crewman Dave Greenberg said.

The teenager, who was visiting the farm, made his way back to the homestead where someone else called 111 and helped stem the blood from his injuries until the helicopter arrived.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter flew him to Wellington Hospital emergency department where he was being treated for his injuries.

- NZPA