ZK HSP

While conducting a positioning flight between Blenheim (South Island NZ) to a lifting job in Raurimu (Central North Island NZ) at approximately 2000 feet altitude, the pilot of a Bell UH1H helicopter, registration number ZK-HSP, noticed the oil pressure fluctuating on the Honeywell T53 engine. He then turned the aircraft towards the beach and selected a suitable precautionary landing site near the Hokio Beach settlement. The pilot stated that before landing, he noticed the engine oil pressure indication drop to zero and a loss of engine power. The helicopter landed hard and rolled on its side.

The investigation is being conducted by the New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission. As the state of manufacture of the airplane and engines, the NTSB has designated a U.S. Accredited Representative under the provisions of Annex 13 to the Convention on Civil Aviation to assist the New Zealand TAIC in their investigation.

Further information pertaining to this accident may be obtained from:

NEW ZEALAND

The Chief Executive Officer

Transport Accident Investigation Commission

11 Cigna House

40 Mercer Street

P.O. Box 10-323

Wellington 6143

New Zealand

Tel.: (64) 4-473-0199 (24 hours)

(64) 4-473-3112

E-mail: inquiries@taic.org.nz

Fax: (64) 4-499-1510

AFTN: NZHOYAYX

Cable: CIVAIR NZ

Website: http://www.taic.org.nz