A police eagle helicopter had to be grounded last night after a near miss with drones in Auckland.
Police say the helicopter was flying over the motorway interchange - known as spaghetti junction - about 12am for New Year celebrations.
They say the pilot spotted a drone flying very close, while two other unauthorised drones were thought to be in the area as well.
Police say the pilot took immediate evasive action to avoid a serious collision.
Inspector Jim Wilson said the crew were shaken after the incident.
"This could easily have ended in a tragedy and it is a worrying reminder of the dangers of flying drones near other aircraft," he said.
The helicopter was suspended from operating for the rest of the night and has been checked over.
Inspector Wilson said it would work with the Civil Aviation Authority to investigate the matter.
"The actions of these people in flying a drone dangerously close to the eagle helicopter is totally irresponsible and police will investigate thoroughly," he said.
Police say the helicopter was flying over the motorway interchange - known as spaghetti junction - about 12am for New Year celebrations.
They say the pilot spotted a drone flying very close, while two other unauthorised drones were thought to be in the area as well.
Police say the pilot took immediate evasive action to avoid a serious collision.
Inspector Jim Wilson said the crew were shaken after the incident.
"This could easily have ended in a tragedy and it is a worrying reminder of the dangers of flying drones near other aircraft," he said.
The helicopter was suspended from operating for the rest of the night and has been checked over.
Inspector Wilson said it would work with the Civil Aviation Authority to investigate the matter.
"The actions of these people in flying a drone dangerously close to the eagle helicopter is totally irresponsible and police will investigate thoroughly," he said.
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