The two people killed in a helicopter crash in Mt Aspiring National Park today were on a hunting trip, police have confirmed.

Detective Sergeant Sarah Waugh of Cromwell CIB said the craft was chartered, and the pair were the sole occupants at the time of the crash.

Three others from the hunting group were located on the ground and taken to safety.

The deaths have been referred to the Coroner, and the Civil Aviation Authority and the Transport Accident Investigation Commission have been notified.

Police enquiries are ongoing.

Waugh said support was being provided to the victims’ loved ones.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​