In a report released yesterday, the commission said there were no mechanical issues with the helicopter, and the crash could have been prevented. Chief commissioner Jane Meares said the accident happened as the helicopter operated by The Helicopter Line was approaching its landing site. The helicopter struck the slope heavily; the cabin broke apart and five of the seven occupants were ejected as it rolled 300m down the mountain. However, he said the rate of descent had increased rapidly and unexpectedly, and the helicopter struck the steep slope nose-down. The commission believed the accident and others suggested a culture existed among some New Zealand helicopter pilots of operating their aircraft beyond published and placarded limits.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 07, 2017 16:52 UTC