Accident investigators have arrived at the scene of yesterday's fatal helicopter crash north of Kaikōura.
Inspectors at the crash site in Kekerengu. Photo: RNZ / Tracy Neal
The helicopter had travelled from Christchurch and crashed into shallow water close to the beach at Kekerengu.
Police have confirmed the two people who died were Andrew Hamish Davidson, 60, and Lin Chen, 39, from Ohoka north of Christchurch.
The family of the couple have asked for privacy.
The three children injured in the crash were in Wellington Hospital, with two in stable condition and the third in a serious condition in intensive care.
Principal Ian Macpherson of Medbury School - a Christchurch private boys' school - said one of the children attended there, and the school would be offering its support to the family involved in the crash.
The school would be opening on Monday morning for families to come together if they needed support, he said.
Wreckage from the helicopter crash site in Kekerengu. Photo: RNZ / Tracy Neal
An eyewitness told RNZ the chopper was landing at the mouth of the Kekerengu River when it spun out of control and crashed to the ground.
The crash site has been is under guard and the wreckage of the helicopter was covered by tarpaulins.
Kaikōura mayor Craig Mackle said the council was working with the emergency services to offer whatever support.
Mackle said the council's thoughts were with the families and friends of those involved and the emergency responders at the scene.
