A body, believed to be that of Matthew Timothy Wallis, has tonight been recovered from the Stevenson’s Arm area of Lake Wanaka.
Around 10:00pm his body was retrieved from the water by the Police National Dive Squad and Royal New Zealand Navy, along with some of the wreckage of a helicopter.
“This is the best possible outcome we could have hoped for in the circumstances, and we are glad to be able to bring some degree of closure to Matthew’s family at this sad time, says Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw.
“Police would like to thank the Wallis family, New Zealand Defence Force, LandSAR volunteers, the Wanaka community and the aviation industry for their assistance in this recovery operation.
“Matthew’s family ask the media to please respect their privacy as they come to terms with their loss.”
The matter will now be referred to the Coroner.
TAIC is investigating.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre