Key Takeaways
- A helicopter crash occurred north of Wellington, resulting in the deaths of a pilot and passenger
- A preliminary scene examination has been completed by the Civil Aviation Authority
- Police are working to formally confirm the identities of the victims
- A cordon remains in place at the Battle Hill campground, and the public and media are urged to respect the area
- Partner agencies assisted in the response and recovery efforts
Introduction to the Incident
A tragic helicopter crash occurred north of Wellington, resulting in the loss of two lives. The incident was reported to the police through the activation of an automatic crash alert at around 7:30 am on Wednesday. The crash took place near the Paekākāriki Hill area, and two people were confirmed to have been killed. The police and other emergency services quickly responded to the scene, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the crash.
Response and Recovery Efforts
The police, along with other partner agencies, worked together to respond to the incident and recover the victims. The Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins, stated that the police are working to formally confirm the identities of those who were recovered. However, this process is ongoing, and the police are unable to release any further information at this stage. The Civil Aviation Authority has completed its preliminary scene examination, and the police are continuing their investigation. Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s Urban Search and Rescue teams were also deployed to the scene to assist in the recovery efforts.
Investigation and Scene Examination
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the police are working to gather all relevant information. The Civil Aviation Authority’s preliminary scene examination has been completed, and the police are conducting their own scene examination. The area around the crash site, including the Battle Hill campground, remains cordoned off, and the public and media are urged to respect the area. This is to ensure that the investigation can be conducted thoroughly and that the scene is not compromised. The police are also working to support the families and friends of the victims, and their thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
Support and Assistance
The police have thanked the partner agencies that assisted in the response and recovery efforts. The support of these agencies has been invaluable in responding to the incident and ensuring that the investigation can be conducted efficiently. The police are also grateful for the cooperation of the public and media in respecting the cordoned area. This cooperation is essential in allowing the police to conduct their investigation and ensuring that the scene is not compromised. The police will continue to provide updates on the investigation as more information becomes available.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The helicopter crash north of Wellington is a tragic incident that has resulted in the loss of two lives. The police and other emergency services are working together to investigate the cause of the crash and support the families and friends of the victims. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are working to gather all relevant information. The public and media are urged to respect the cordoned area and to cooperate with the police as they conduct their investigation. As the investigation continues, the police will provide updates and ensure that the families and friends of the victims are supported throughout the process.
