Police have today released the name of the man whose helicopter crashed after hitting a power line in French Pass about 5.20pm yesterday.
Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter collide with a power line which runs between D’Urville Island and the mainland.
He is believed to be Ian John Simcox, aged 65 years of Blenheim. The identity cannot be confirmed until the formal identification process is complete.
Mr Simcox owned the Robinson 44 helicopter involved in the crash and was in the area to work on his bach. His family has been advised.
The CAA is investigating and the Coroner has been notified.