Highest workplace fatalities in New Zealand in 2022 were in Agriculture, WorkSafe figures reveal

Highest Workplace Fatalities in New Zealand in 2022 Were in Agriculture, WorkSafe Figures Reveal

Agriculture remains New Zealand's most dangerous industry, with preliminary data from WorkSafe NZ confirming this sector recorded the highest number of workplace fatalities in 2022. Figures show that 44 work-related deaths were reported to the safety watchdog throughout the year.

Fatalities by Industry: 2022 Breakdown

According to WorkSafe figures, farm work continues to carry the greatest occupational health and safety risk in New Zealand. The data show:

• Agriculture: 12 fatalities — the highest of any sector
• Transport: 9 fatalities
• Construction: 6 fatalities

These figures highlight why farm worker safety must remain a priority for employers, health and safety managers, and policymakers across NZ's primary sector. For a deeper look at why farming consistently tops the fatality tables, see our related analysis on agriculture leading in workplace fatalities in New Zealand.

About the Data

WorkSafe NZ notes that this preliminary information reflects initial notifications only. The organisation stated:

"The work-related deaths listed in this table are based on initial notifications to WorkSafe and provides preliminary information. Once the death has been investigated, more detailed information becomes available."

Because figures are subject to revision, safety professionals should treat these numbers as a starting point rather than a final tally. WorkSafe New Zealand fatalities data gets updated once investigations conclude, so organisations should keep monitoring the updated work-related fatality figures published by the regulator for the most current picture.

You can view the full WorkSafe fatality summary table for further detail on incidents recorded across all industries.

Why This Matters for Workplace Safety

Understanding where fatalities occur helps businesses target their health and safety efforts more effectively. High-risk sectors like agriculture, transport, and construction require robust systems that address hazards specific to physically demanding, equipment-heavy environments.

For organisations operating in construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, maintaining strong safety documentation isn't just best practice — it's a critical part of protecting workers and demonstrating due diligence under New Zealand's health and safety legislation. Employers in lower-fatality sectors shouldn't grow complacent either; even office-based industries carry risks that warrant proper office and administration health and safety systems.

Businesses across hospitality, retail, and other service industries can also benefit from tailored safety frameworks, such as those outlined in our hospitality health and safety work arrangements for New Zealand resource, or a broader health and safety work manual for New Zealand businesses.

Building a Safer Workplace Culture

WorkSafe's 2022 figures reinforce a consistent trend: agriculture, transport, and construction remain New Zealand's highest-risk sectors year after year. Employers in these industries should prioritise:

• Regular safety audits and hazard identification
• Clear reporting procedures for near-misses and incidents
• Ongoing training tailored to sector-specific risks
• Documented safety management systems that meet regulatory expectations

For businesses seeking guidance on compliance requirements across New Zealand, our New Zealand health and safety management systems hub offers resources tailored to local legislation.

Employers with specific questions about implementing compliant safety frameworks can also refer to our frequently asked questions for New Zealand page for further clarification on common workplace safety obligations.