New Zealand Helicopter crash while putting up giant Christmas tree

Internet viewers watching a Christmas tree being erected in Auckland on a live stream saw a helicopter clip a wire, spin out of control and crash to the ground. 


The pilot, Greg Gribble, was fortunate to escape serious injury after the crash near the Auckland Viaduct while it was trying to erect a 26-metre high Christmas tree about 10.30am (8.30am AEDT) today.

The incident was seen live on the TVNZ website as it streamed the event. The helicopter was only metres above the ground when it got in trouble.


It was reported the helicopter rotor blade clipped a cable. The tail appeared to snap when it fell. The cockpit remained intact.


The helicopter pilot was seen walking away from the crash with the support of two people also working on the project.