The man killed when his glider crashed northwest of Twizel during the weekend has been named.
He was Murray John Philpott (55), of Christchurch.
Mr Philpott was a New Zealand A class sailor and tributes have been flowing for the national champion in the international sailing community.
In a statement, New Zealand A Division Catamaran Association (NZADCA) president, Brent Harsant said it was "with great sadness that we heard of the passing of Murray Philpott''.
Mr Philpott was one NZADCA's longest serving members and was always happy to offer his services as a technical advisor and measurer to other sailors.
"He won many national regattas and represented New Zealand at the Worlds where he made a lot of great connections,'' Mr Harsant said.'
"He was an integral part of the New Zealand fleet, and his passion and enthusiasm for the class helped it get to where it is today.''
NZADCA had not only lost a fantastic sailor, but also a great guy, he said.
"Whether it was on the water or land, Murray was a fun person to be around with and had the biggest smile,'' Mr Harsant said.
"He was always the first person on the beach to assist others out of the water.''
Searchers found the wreckage of the glider Mr Philpott had been flying in the Ben Ohau Range at 7pm on Sunday. It took off from Omarama at 1pm the day before.
Maritime New Zealand said on Sunday Mr Philpott was the only person in the glider.
Omarama Gliding advised the Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand the glider was missing at 8.02pm on Saturday.
The centre began co-ordinating the search using an aircraft and took advantage of available light.
The cause of the crash was unknown and the accident has been referred to the Civil Aviation Authority.
