Very sad day for the Helicopter industry in nz and especially the families of those killed. What a tragic ending to the story. There are still to many of these accidents happening in NZ and around the world. The common question always comes to mind, "What do you mean we can't find them????" It Must have been very frustrating for the family.
I was involved in a similar seach for an R22 flown by Mr Burns. He again a private owner went missing somewhere between Taupo and Tauranga (60nm direct track), with no flight following or flight plan, no activation of the ELT. The area involved alot of dense bush and also farm land but his intensional track unknown meaning one huge search area. After days of seaching they where found in a paddock 10nm from taupo aerodrome!
There needs to be a bit of education on the importance of position reporting and flight following on private ops. Tell someone you will call them on each fuel stop and the exact route to be taken. Cellphone kits are cheap and easy way for you to keep people up to date with where you are at.
I never plan for seach and rescue to come looking for me. If they don't know (or cant find out) my last position or track, IM NOT DOING MY JOB PROPERLY!!!
I know the rescue machines have all the gear to find me with, but they should only have to rescue me, not search for me. We dont need more high tech search equipement, we need to change mindsets. I have often sked myself "does anyone know Im here if I go down, well better tell someone"