A forestry contracting company has been accused of ignoring health and safety requirements which lead to the death of a young forest worker in late 2012.
Reece Reid, 23, was killed instantly after a tree fell on him. His inquest is being held in Rotorua.
Worksafe New Zealand Inspector Linda West told the coroner that Great Lake Harvesting breached many health and safety rules, had few experienced employees and required people to work long hours.
Ms West said Mr Reid, who had little experience, was allowed to fell trees unsupervised.
She also told the court that a previous company that had employed Great Lake Harvesting told her they regarded them as cowboys.
The company has already been prosecuted for Mr Reid's death and found guilty of safety violations.
