Inquest resumes for second day

The family of Robert Epapara have told a court they want to see dramatic changes within the forestry industry to prevent "another Robert from dying in the same way."

Robert Arapeta Ruri Epapara, 23, was hit by a tree felled by another crew member in the Waione Forest, near Lake Rotoiti, on March 26, 2013.

Mr Epapara's case is the fifth to be heard before Coroner Dr Wallace Bain as part of a joint inquiry being held in Rotorua focusing on eight workers who died while working in New Zealand forests in 2012 and 2013.

The inquest resumed yesterday and continued this morning, with the court hearing from two police officers along with Mr Epapara's step father and his biological father.

His stepfather, Wiremu Edmonds, well known for advocating for better health and safety measures in the forestry sector, said Mr Epapara's death highlighted the importance of forestry workers having daily morning safety meetings, documented tree felling plans and radio communication.

"As an expert in the industry working strongly with crew culture, I am concerned as accidents don't just happen. There will be a series of events or circumstances that will lead up to a workplace accident," he said.

The recommendations from the inquest will be made when all eight inquests have been dealt with by the Coroner.