The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into a helicopter crash that occurred at about 9am today at a remote location North East of Waiouru.

The Chief Investigator of Accidents, Captain Tim Burfoot, says circumstances reported to date are that the accident involved a Hughes MD600N helicopter.

“The helicopter was on a commercial operation with 5 people on board when it crashed,” said Capt. Burfoot

“We understand one person has been hospitalized, the other four were also injured, and the helicopter has been extensively damaged.”

The Commission has appointed team of three investigators. They are currently due to arrive at the site tomorrow morning.

The Commission opens an inquiry when it believes the circumstances of an accident or incident have - or are likely to have - significant implications for transport safety, or when the inquiry may allow the Commission to make findings or recommendations to improve transport safety.

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