The pilot of a Robinson R22 helicopter had a fortunate escape after being forced to 'park' his helicopter in the top of a tree in Akitio yesterday.
Maritime New Zealand said the chief pilot from Outback Helicopters alerted the Rescue Co-ordination Centre of New Zealand by switching on his emergency locator beacon.
A rescue helicopter from Palmerston North was readied to go to his aid.
However, the pilot was able to climb from his machine and phone rescue authorities from a nearby farmhouse.
