KEY POINTS:
Haast helicopter pilot Morgan Saxton was farewelled yesterday in a funeral service attended by more than 1000 people, including those who worked on the challenging recovery of his body.
Mr Saxton, 31, died when his helicopter went down in Lake Wanaka on November 1.
Sonar scanning finally found Mr Saxton and his mangled machine in the lake at a depth of 94m.
Police, navy and local volunteers worked together on the tricky recovery operation.
Yesterday's service, at the Alpine Fighter Collection Hangar at Wanaka airport, doubled as an aviation rally as pilots flew in from all parts of the country and parked up on the runway, The Press reported.
The gathered mourners were told of a best friend, top pilot, a story teller, and a fun character who filled a room with joy.
"He lived life to the full, some would say five lifetimes in his 31 years," said uncle Jerry Hohneck.
Friend Jonathan Wallis spoke about the extensive search for Mr Saxton in Lake Wanaka, which was "the best send-off of all".
The head of the navy dive team, Lieutenant Commander Andrew McMillan, told mourners that while Mr Saxton's death was a "terrible tragedy", helping get his body back was a "positive experience".
"I am humbled by the sense of community and camaraderie and the lengths people went to, to get Morgan back," he said.
Mr Saxton's final chopper flight took him away for a private family committal and blessing in Haast.
- NZPA
