R22 Helicopter Search * Lake Wanaka

The Wanaka Police have released the name of the missing pilot who is the subject of a search for him and his missing R22 aircraft.

The pilot and sole occupant of the machine is;
Morgan David SAXTON, aged 31 years of Haast
Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw of the Wanaka Police said 'Mr Saxton is a commercial pilot and known to be very experienced'

'The search for him and his machine is being concentrated in an area north of Mou Waho Island'.

He was believed to be on a repositioning flight from Haast to Wanaka in preparation for frost fighting in the regions vineyards the following morning although this is yet to be confirmed.

Mr Morgan and his machine were last seen at approximately 6.00pm on Saturday evening near Minaret Station towards the northern end of Lake Wanaka.

Police acknowledge that RCC are the lead agency in this operation and any further comment regarding the status of the search should come from them.

If approved by RCC further local comment can be made by me. I can be contacted on 0272 490 254 or 03 4431527.