St Andrew’s College in Christchurch has paid tribute to the student’s parents killed in yesterday’s helicopter crash near Kaikōura.

Rector Christine Leighton emailed parents this afternoon saying “we suspect that by now you will have heard the devastating news of the helicopter crash in Kaikōura yesterday afternoon.”

”It was with a heavy heart we learned that St Andrew’s College families are involved. Andrew Davidson and his wife Lin Chen were tragically killed in the accident and two children from the Preparatory School were injured and are in Wellington Hospital. Our hearts go out to the families and their loved ones.”

”We know you will be devastated by this news and many of you are supporting each other and your children.”

“St Andrew’s staff are supporting those involved in whatever way we can, while respecting their privacy at this tragic time.”

Rector Christine Leighton said “a range of counselling services will be made available to support our community, including a time for families to come together in our Centennial Chapel with members of the chaplaincy and counselling teams. The Chapel will be open at 11.00am–12.00pm on Monday 21 December.”

”I know you will keep the families involved in your prayers.”