Pilot escapes with minor injuries after forced landing in farmland

27 February 2025

A light plane has crashed in the Manawatū district.

A Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre spokesperson said the plane got into trouble on Thursday, near Glen Oroua, a rural community west of Palmerston North.

“We were notified via a Personal Locator Beacon activation at approximately 12:50 PM.

“The pilot was the sole occupant, and initial reports indicate they sustained minor injuries.”

It was understood the pilot had conducted a forced landing, they said.

Pictures of the plane posted on a social media site after the landing appeared to show it among long grass in farmland.

“We tasked the Manawatū Rescue Helicopter to the location to assist, with other emergency services also attending.”

“The patient was treated on scene by the onboard Critical Care Flight Paramedic for approximately 20 minutes before being airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital for further medical treatment,” said a spokesperson for the Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter.