Two killed in gyrocopter crash

A gyrocopter has crashed into a paddock in Normanby killing the two men on board.

It was around 1.40 yesterday afternoon that the aircraft, when the aircraft crashed about 500 metres from SH3 on Ohangai Road. No-one on the ground was hurt.

It is believed that the gyrocopter was flying out of a local aero-club. One of the men is believed to be in his 70s and from New Plymouth and the other man is believed to be in his 50s from the Hawera area. Further details about the men are not being released at this stage.

The Civil Aviation Authority has been notified and is sending a team of investigators to the scene to work alongside police to establish the cause of the crash. The coroner has also been notified.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.