Two people have died in a light plane crash at Raglan this afternoon.
The incoming tide has now encircled the light plane that crashed in Raglan Harbour this afternoon. Photo: RNZ / Andrew McRae
The plane crashed into the harbour near East St, just south of the town centre, about 3.20pm this afternoon.
Scene of the crash at Raglan. Photo: RNZ / Andrew McRae
Two bodies were recovered just before 6pm as emergency services worked quickly to beat the incoming tide.
RNZ's reporter at the scene, Andrew McRae, said the plane is sitting in shallow water and most of it can still be seen.
The tail and wings appear intact but the engine and cockpit are destroyed.
A rope has been tied to the wreckage.
Police said they are working to identify the two people killed in the crash.
A nearby resident, Ted Glynn, earlier said he heard "an almighty bang" that he thought sounded like something heavy crashing, such as a big truck. He could not see the plane from this house but had heard ambulance and fire sirens.
Waikato west area commander Inspector Andrew Mortimore said police will be taking statements from witnesses in the coming days.
The Civil Aviation Authority is inspecting the wreckage.