0:21:07 Friday 29 August 2025

BoP helicopter crash under investigation

The crash involved a Bell 206L-3 LongRanger helicopter, registration ZK-IGD. Photo / Nathan Cox

A private helicopter reportedly experienced “violent shaking” just before it crashed in eastern Bay of Plenty.

Emergency services were alerted to the crash, which left three people injured on a rural residential property between Matatā and Thornton at 3.16pm on Sunday.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is investigating the incident, which involved a Bell 206L-3 LongRanger helicopter, registration ZK-IGD, and occurred about 15km north-west of Whakatāne near Matatā, a spokesman said.

“The reported circumstances were that shortly after lift-off, the helicopter experienced violent shaking, and it impacted the ground on its left side.

“The helicopter was extensively damaged.”

The Civil Aviation Authority had been advised of a helicopter incident involving a privately-operated aircraft with three people on board, including the pilot, a CAA spokeswoman said.

Two of the injured were driven to Whakatāne Hospital by ambulance in moderate conditions, and the third was airlifted to Tauranga Hospital in a serious condition.

“CAA has notified the Transport Accident Investigation Commission and has deployed a staff member to the scene to assist with initial coordination.”

The spokeswoman said there was no risk to the wider public and further updates would be provided when appropriate.

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