Statement attributable to Superintendent Paul Basham, Southern District Commander
I would like to acknowledge the friends, families and colleagues of those lost yesterday in the tragic helicopter accident in Wanaka.
While the formal identification process is still to be completed we believe the deceased to be 38-year-old Nick Wallis of Wanaka (pictured) and Paul Hondelink (63) and Scott Theobald (59) of Twizel.
We recognise the significance of this tragedy not only for immediate family but also for the wider DOC staff and the alpine and aviation community in Wanaka.
We have stood up a significant team from across the District to support the investigation.
We are working at the scene today and potentially tomorrow. We are also continuing to work with the families and the wider community in the days and weeks ahead as we support them.
Police are making inquiries on behalf of the Coroner while also supporting the investigation of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission are leading the investigation to understand the cause of the crash.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
