Plane crash couple 'recovering well', says son

Alan and Anne Warner of Waitara, Taranaki. Photo / Facebook

A couple who walked away from a light plane crash yesterday are both "recovering well", their son says, despite some reports that his mother's condition was worsening.

Alan and Anne Warner, were reported missing after their Zenith Zodiac CH 601-XL aircraft failed to reach Stratford Aerodrome, after taking off from Whitianga on Sunday afternoon.

The Zenith 601XL aircraft that crashed yesterday. Photo / blogspotbigsky.blogspot.co.nz

The single engine plane crashed near Whangamomona in poor weather that night, and they were found in thick bush near the upturned wreck of the plane by rescue chopper late yesterday morning.

Mr Warner, 58, suffered moderate back injuries, and was last night discharged from Taranaki Base Hospital. He was "doing well", the couple's eldest son Adam Warner said.

"Mum is in a stable condition with chest and back injuries," he said in a statement released by the hospital.

"Contrary to some media reports, her condition has not deteriorated and she is currently recovering at Taranaki Base Hospital."

She was expected to make a full recovery, he said.

"Both mum and dad want me to pass on that they really appreciate all the well wishes and support the family has received."

However, neither of them would be giving interviews, he said.