Boy praised for actions after electrocution

Canterbury police are praising the actions of a seven-year-old boy after his father was electrocuted by a downed power line and his mother was injured trying to help him.

39 year-old farm manager Brendon Edward Walker died at his property near Kaikoura on Saturday.

His wife, who found him, suffered shocks when she attempted to free him.

She was flown to Christchurch Hospital where she is being treated for burns to her hand and feet.

Their seven-year-old son, who was at the scene, ran back to the house and called for help.

Constable Jon Eagle of Culverden police has commended the boy's bravery.

He says the child was confronted by everyone's worst nightmare but had the presence of mind to run and get help.

It is believed that Mr Walker had gone to check stock and found three cows which had also been electrocuted.