Bad weather has hampered rescue efforts at the site of a light plane crash in the Southern Alps

The plane left Franz Josef at about 9 am yesterday morning and was en route to Rangiora.

Air Traffic Control notified the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand at 11 am.

One person was on-board.

The plane was located near Mt Nicholson in the Southern Alps.

Overnight a plan was developed overnight to try and reach the area.

This has now been put on hold due, due to winds being above a safe operating level for helicopters.

Another attempt will be made to reach the location of the crash when the weather improves.