A man has been killed after being buried by coal at Lyttelton Port this morning.

Emergency services was notified of the accident at 09:12.

 A Fire and Emergency Spokesman said crews were on board coal-carrying vessel ETG Aquarius at Lyttelton this morning when the accident occurred.

A St John spokeswoman told Chris Lynch Media one ambulance, one intensive care paramedic and one manager were called to the scene.

Lyttelton Port Acting CEO Kirstie Gardener said “we can confirm that this morning there has been a fatality aboard the vessel ETG Aquarius berthed at Cashin Quay.”

 “Sadly an LPC staff member has passed away while the vessel was being loaded with coal for export.”

 “At the moment we can’t confirm any further details on the incident.”

“I wish to express my deep sadness and condolences to both the family of our team member and to the rest of the LPC team.”

 “Our focus right now is on supporting our staff and the family of our LPC team member at this tragic time. “

A Maritime New Zealand spokesperson confirmed to Chris Lynch, that investigators had been called to the ship and were likely to be there for the rest of the day.

A Work Safe spokesperson said they had been notified of the accident.