Search underway for overdue light aircraft near Nelson

A search is underway for a privately owned Cessna 172P light aircraft that went missing near Nelson on Tuesday. The plane departed Nelson at approximately 9.10am. Two rescue helicopters from Nelson and Wellington are currently searching the area where the aircraft was last known to be.

Flight tracking data indicates the aircraft reached an altitude of 3100 feet before dropping to approximately 1800 feet in 49 seconds, after which it disappeared from radar. One report noted the plane reached 944 metres before dropping to about 550 metres in 90 seconds. The search appears to be concentrated in the Bryant Range, near the boundary between the Nelson and Marlborough regions.

The Maritime NZ Rescue Co-ordination Centre is leading the search operation with support from various partner agencies. Police are involved and standing by to assist if required. Fire and Emergency NZ has also been notified and is on standby.

The registered owner of the aircraft declined to comment to the media out of respect for those involved but stated a statement would be made in due course. Nelson Aeroclub instructor Shem Love noted that the plane did not belong to the club. Love added that the significant descent could have been an attempt to fly under cloud or part of mountain flying practice.

Where reports differ

• Reports differ on the specific altitude and timing of the aircraft's descent before it disappeared from radar

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, 1News, Stuff, Otago Daily Times and The Press.