Aerowork says it is in shock after one if its pilots was killed in a light aircraft crash this morning.
Ruakiwi Road, Carterton. Photo: Google Maps
Police said emergency services were responding to the crash near Ruakiwi Road after being alerted about 7.30am.
The top-dressing plane crashed shortly after take-off on a farm near Carterton.
Aerowork said it was a very sad and traumatic day for their tight-knit team.
The man was a very experienced and dedicated pilot, the company said.
A spokesperson said it was hard to say what had happened at this time, and they would be waiting for a full investigation to take place.
Carterton mayor Greg Lang said the incident was devastating, "especially in a close-knit, rural community."
He added that the news would be felt throughout the Wairarapa.
The death will be referred to the Coroner and the Civil Aviation Authority will investigate the crash.