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Police: 7 believed dead in New Zealand helicopter crash

Posted at 10:48 PM, Nov 21, 2015
and last updated 2015-11-21 22:48:25-05

Seven people are believed dead after a sightseeing helicopter crashed in New Zealand, police said.

Those on board included four people from the United Kingdom, and two from Australia.

The helicopter went down Saturday on Fox glacier, a popular tourist destination on the nation’s south island.

The glacier’s in a remote location, and recovery of the bodies could take a number of days, police said. Next of kin were being notified.

The recovery operation was underway and would continue as long as the weather allowed, police said Sunday afternoon.

“The operation is extremely challenging and the safety of those working at the scene is of paramount importance,” they said.

A statement indicated the pilot was a 28-year-old from Queenstown, New Zealand. The others ranged in age from 27 to 70. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families at this difficult time,” police said.