As stated by Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:
A significant recovery operation took place yesterday to recover both the pilot and passenger from the crash site.
Police are working to formally confirm the identity of those who were recovered but are unable to do so at this stage of the investigation.
Our thoughts remain with their families and friends at this time.
Civil Aviation Authority investigators have completed their preliminary scene examination.
A scene examination by Police is ongoing and cordons will remain in place at the Battle Hill campground - media and members of the public are asked to respect those cordons and follow the instructions of emergency services staff.
Police would again like to thank our partners who assisted in the response and recovery phases of the operation, including Maritime New Zealand's Rescue Coordination Centre, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Te Atiāwa ki Whakarongotai, Civil Aviation Authority and Greater Wellington Regional Council.
