A Whangamata farmer is in Tauranga Hospital with suspected back injuries after falling two metres from a milking shed.

The Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to Whangamata overnight after the 64-year-old farmer had fallen and landed awkwardly on his back.

Pilot and base manager Liam Brettkelly says the helicopter medic provided pain relief and stabilisation prior to flying the man to Tauranga Hospital.

'The helicopter was used because of the nature of the man's injuries and the distance to hospital.”