A MainPower employee receives an electric shock while repairing electricity network damage attributed to copper thefts in North Canterbury, according to reporting from the Otago Daily Times. The incident highlights safety risks linked to the removal of copper components used in power distribution. The article explains that copper earthing wires (earth leads) play a safety role: if a fault occurs on a power pole, the earth wire provides a path for electricity to travel safely into the ground. When these components are stolen or damaged, faults can create hazardous conditions for workers performing repairs and for the wider public. The report describes the shock as an example of the growing danger presented by theft activity affecting local network infrastructure. Details of the worker’s condition, the specific location of the damage, and the broader impact on power supply are not included in the provided text. The account frames the event as a warning sign that continued copper thefts are creating increased risk for electrical safety and repair work in the region.