Key Takeaways
- A helicopter crash occurred near Paekākāriki Hill on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of two people
- The victims were pest control contractors working on Transmission Gully
- The Transport Agency has confirmed the identities of the victims and is providing support to those affected
- A significant recovery operation was conducted to recover the victims from the crash site
- The Civil Aviation Authority has completed its preliminary scene examination
Introduction to the Incident
The recent helicopter crash near Wellington has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning near Paekākāriki Hill, and the victims were later confirmed to be pest control contractors working on Transmission Gully. The Transport Agency has since confirmed the identities of the victims and is providing support to those affected by the crash. The agency has also notified Worksafe, which will likely conduct an investigation into the incident.
Details of the Crash
The helicopter crash was reported to have occurred in a remote area, with a witness claiming to have seen the aircraft involved in goat culling in the area. The witness, who was the first to reach the crash site, reported that he checked one of the bodies for vital signs before the Westpac rescue chopper arrived. Unfortunately, he was unable to find any sign of life, and the Westpac crew later spotted another body in thick scrub, some distance from the wreckage. The crash site is located near the Battle Hill campground, which remains cordoned off while police examine the scene.
Recovery Operation
A significant recovery operation was conducted to recover the victims from the crash site. Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander Inspector Renée Perkins reported that the operation was complex due to the remote location and challenging terrain. The police are working to formally confirm the identity of the victims, but this process is ongoing. The thoughts of the police and the community remain with the families and friends of the victims at this difficult time. The recovery operation was carried out with the assistance of the Westpac rescue chopper and other emergency services.
Investigation
The Civil Aviation Authority has completed its preliminary scene examination, and a full investigation into the cause of the crash will likely follow. The Transport Agency and Worksafe will also conduct their own investigations into the incident. The police are working closely with these agencies to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. The investigation will aim to identify the cause of the crash and make recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Support and Condolences
The Transport Agency is providing support to those affected by the crash, including the families and friends of the victims. The agency has also expressed its condolences to those affected, acknowledging the significant impact of the incident on the community. The police have also offered their condolences, and the community is coming together to support those affected by the tragedy. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by those working in remote and challenging environments.
Conclusion
The helicopter crash near Paekākāriki Hill has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, and the community is coming together to support those affected. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the findings will be used to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of those working in remote and challenging environments, and the need for effective support systems to be in place for those affected by such tragedies. As the community continues to come to terms with the incident, the thoughts and condolences of the nation are with the families and friends of the victims.
