Key Takeaways:
- A helicopter crash in the Paekākāriki Hill area has resulted in the deaths of the pilot and sole passenger.
- The helicopter was involved in goat culling and was leaking fuel after the crash, posing a fire risk.
- Emergency services, including police and rescue helicopters, responded to the scene and set up a base of operations at Battle Hill Farm Forest Park.
- An investigation into the crash is ongoing, with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) making initial inquiries to understand what occurred and why.
- The crash has sparked memories of previous helicopter crashes in the area, including a fatal incident in 2010 that resulted in the deaths of three airmen.
Introduction to the Incident
The helicopter crash in the Paekākāriki Hill area has sent shockwaves through the community, with the pilot and sole passenger tragically losing their lives. According to eyewitnesses, the helicopter was leaking fuel after the crash, posing a significant fire risk. The man who reported the incident stated that he was unable to turn off the machine due to the fire risk and decided to move away from the scene. Police Inspector Renee Perkins confirmed the deaths of the two individuals and stated that work is ongoing to recover the deceased and examine the crash scene.
Response from Emergency Services
Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, with police and rescue helicopters arriving promptly. Maritime NZ reported that two rescue helicopters and police were in the area, with support from Fire and Emergency being organized. The Fire and Emergency shift manager stated that they had two crews in the area from Porirua and had sent out their "line rescue team", also known as rope rescue, which is trained in high-angle, vertical, or challenging terrain. The response from emergency services was swift and comprehensive, with multiple agencies working together to respond to the incident.
Investigation into the Crash
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched an investigation into the crash, with initial inquiries being made to understand what occurred and why. The CAA will work to determine whether any further action is required. Police have set up a cordon at the entrance to Battle Hill Farm Forest Park, and the public is being asked to respect the cordons in place. The investigation will be thorough and meticulous, with the aim of determining the cause of the crash and identifying any factors that may have contributed to the tragedy.
Reaction from Local Authorities
Local authorities have expressed their sadness and condolences to the families of the deceased. MP for taki and ex-Air Force helicopter pilot Tim Costley stated that he was "really sad" to hear about the "tragic" crash. Costley, who has experience as a pilot, said that his mind wandered to what could have caused the crash and that it was "gutting" for the first responders who did everything they could to try and save lives. He also recalled losing three colleagues in a 2010 Air Force helicopter crash near Paekākāriki Hill Rd, which is close to the same area as the current crash.
History of Helicopter Crashes in the Area
The Paekākāriki Hill area has a history of helicopter crashes, including a fatal incident in 2010 that resulted in the deaths of three airmen. The NZ Defence Force pleaded guilty in 2014 for the deadly incident, with a court hearing that Air Force commanders allowed a dangerous and deadly culture of rule-breaking to exist. In 2017, another chopper came down in the Pauatahanui inlet, with the pilot managing to escape the sinking aircraft. The investigation into the 2017 crash found that a phenomenon known as "unanticipated yaw" was probably responsible for the crash. Unanticipated yaw is when the body of the helicopter begins to move in the opposite direction to the rotors, which can be fixed if the pilot notices it and acts quickly.
Conclusion and Ongoing Support
The helicopter crash in the Paekākāriki Hill area is a tragic reminder of the risks and dangers associated with aviation. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and it is essential that the families of the deceased are given the support and respect they need during this difficult time. The community is coming together to offer their condolences and support, and it is crucial that the public respects the cordons in place and allows the emergency services to do their job. As the investigation continues, it is hoped that the cause of the crash will be determined, and any necessary actions will be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
