Waipu fireman dies in hang-glider crash

Pilot also killed after tandem flight crashes into field near Queenstown

Volunteer firefighters have been "rocked" by the death of a friend and colleague in a hang-glider accident near Queenstown yesterday.

Andrew Scotland, a 34-year-old self-employed builder of Waipu, died with pilot Gerado Bean of Argentina, in the crash on Boyds Paddock after taking off from an area on The Remarkables.

Mr Scotland's pregnant wife was understood to be in Queenstown at the time of the accident.

The red and white aircraft was "extensively damaged" and a reserve chute was found close to the hang-glider.

The cause of the incident had not yet been determined - despite power lines being very close to where the pair landed. Civil Aviation Authority officials are investigating.

Northland fire regional commander Trevor Andrews described the brigade as "totally devastated" by the incident. However, they were a "resilient lot" who would help Mr Scotland's wife and 3-year-old son through a difficult time.

Mr Scotland "took life by the throat" and enjoyed challenging himself which led him to try hang-gliding.

His 10-year contribution to firefighting was something to be proud of, Mr Andrews said.

"People of his ability, experience and calibre are hard to come by."

For a fireman to be lost in such a tragic way was a "double tragedy".

He was a fine example of someone who contributed to their community and would be sorely missed, he said.

Keith Baker, who was a firefighting colleague with Mr Scotland for 10 years, said his death "would create a huge hole, not only in the brigade but also in Waipu. He has a lovely wife, and young son".

"Waipu has lost a well-loved son."

Skytrek Hang Gliding owner Ian Clark said the company, which has been operating since 1992, acknowledged the incident "with deepest regret".

He and the Skytrek staff were "devastated" by what had happened.

He said Mr Bean, 27, was an experienced tandem hang-gliding pilot and also an experienced competition pilot.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES