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Helicopter makes hard landing at Gisborne Airport, two people injured

Author
Zoe Mills & James Pocock,
Publish Date
Tue, 7 Jul 2026, 3:10pm
A cordon on Aerodrome Rd leading to Gisborne Airport at 2.30pm. Photo / Zoe Mills
A cordon on Aerodrome Rd leading to Gisborne Airport at 2.30pm. Photo / Zoe Mills

Emergency services have responded to an incident involving a helicopter at Gisborne Airport just after 2pm.

A police spokesperson described the incident as a “hard landing”.

The Gisborne Herald understands it happened on the northern side of the main runway.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews from Gisborne station, Manutūkē, Patutahi, Tolaga Bay and Eastland responded.

Fire and Emergency NZ senior dispatcher Becca Jennings said there were no reports of anyone trapped on board or any fire.

Hato Hone St John said it sent two ambulances, two operations managers, an air ambulance helicopter and a rapid response unit.

“Our ambulance staff assessed two people at the scene in minor conditions. No transportation to hospital was required,” a spokesperson said.

A cordon was in place on Aerodrome Rd leading to the airport as of 2.40pm.

The Gisborne Herald observed people with boarding passes being let through.

Police officers on the ground said there could be up to a three-hour delay for flights.

Police said the Civil Aviation Authority had been notified.

Gisborne Airport said on social media it was working closely with agencies to support the response.

“The cause of the incident is not yet known and will be investigated by the appropriate authorities.

“We thank emergency services for their prompt response and ask that people avoid the area unless they have a legitimate reason to be there.

“Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”

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