An ''extensively damaged'' Robinson helicopter is being investigated after a crash in Southland.
Transport Accident Investigation Commission spokesman Roger Foley said a pilot walked away from the ''extensively damaged'' R66 helicopter after it crashed in a paddock in Mandeville just before 2pm on Monday.
''The conditions at the time were fine and calm.''
The pilot was alone in the helicopter and sustained ''a few scratches'' in the crash.
The helicopter, owned by Heliops, in Otautau, was being used to spray.
Heliops did not return calls yesterday.
Mr Foley said the helicopter had been taken to in Invercargill for further examination.
Last month, the commission added the Robinson helicopter to its official watchlist because of concern about Robinson helicopter crashes in New Zealand.
