The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into an accident involving a Cessna 172P Skyhawk near Nelson on 3 November 2026.
The reported circumstances were that the aircraft, registration ZK-BFQ, departed Nelson Airport and was reported overdue just before midday. Search and rescue then located the wreckage in remote terrain near North Castor Peak, Bryant Range, about 20km North-East of Nelson. The two occupants were deceased and the aircraft was destroyed.
Chief Investigator of Accidents Louise Cook says the Commission investigates accidents to find out what happened and why, and identify lessons to improve transport safety. Its inquiries focus on avoiding repeat accidents, rather than assigning blame or liability.
The Commission has appointed a team of two investigators.
Investigators’ first priority is evidence that could disappear or change, including the condition of the wreckage, electronic records and people’s recollections. Further evidence gathering typically includes interviewing witnesses, and obtaining available flight tracking data and cockpit recordings and radio communications. Investigators also gather information about the weather, the aircraft’s maintenance history, the pilot and the planned flight.
Access to the site and the time needed there will depend on terrain, weather and safety conditions.
The purpose of TAIC inquiries is to improve transport safety by identifying lessons that can help the transport sector avoid similar accidents, rather than to assign blame or establish liability.