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Today RCCNZ concentrated on an area that had not previously been searched. It was identified from the most recently reported credible sightings.
Director of Maritime NZ, Russell Kilvington, who is responsible for RCCNZ, says the search has been very difficult due not only to rugged terrain and poor weather at times, but because of the immense size of the area and also the limited information about the route the helicopter took.
“Since Saturday, the area we’ve searched has gradually moved south, as more sightings of the helicopter were reported. The sightings of the helicopter on Friday were initially around the Raglan area, and then over the last two days there have been reports of the helicopter around the Mokau area and south towards Wanganui,” he said.
“Despite an extensive search by up to 20 helicopters covering around 20,000 square kilometres during four and a half days, the missing helicopter and crew have not been found. Obviously, the chances of there being survivors grow less as time progresses.
“If the missing helicopter is not found by tonight, our team will review all information we have received, to ensure we have considered and searched for the helicopter in all of the most likely locations. We’ll then make a decision as to the next steps to be taken in the morning.”
“A large number of people have been involved in this search, and we are extremely grateful for their time and effort,” he said.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
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