Kiwi chopper pilot killed in Australia

Chris Mansell was an experienced pilot who had flown helicopters in many parts of the world. Photo / Hawkes Bay Today

A New Zealand helicopter pilot has been killed after hitting power lines in Australia.

Chris Mansell, 50, from Hawke's Bay was on a two-week contract for an Australian company when the accident happened in Victoria's Gippsland region on Thursday, the Dominion Post reported.

Skyline Aviation's managing director, Michael Toogood, said Mr Mansell's death was shattering.

Mr Mansell was a "very experienced" pilot who had flown a wide range of helicopters in many parts of the world and had worked for the Hawke's Bay Helicopter Rescue Trust for the past five years.

Mr Mansell survived a similar accident northwest of Napier in September 2008, when his Robinson 44 hit power lines during a spraying flight. He suffered a broken arm, punctured lung, chest injuries and burns.

Mr Mansell is survived by his partner and two daughters aged seven and 11. Mr Toogood and the family were arranging to bring Mr Mansell's body home.

- NZPA