Skydive Auckland client dies after mid-air collision

A female skydiver has died after a mid-air collision above Auckland's Muriwai Beach on Thursday evening.

According to a statement released by Skydive Auckland, which was operating the dive, the incident occurred when a group of experienced parachutists were taking part in nine-way formation when two of parachutists collided during freefall.

The parachute of the woman, who was reportedly knocked unconscious as a result of the collision, was deployed by another member of the group and she descended into the sea off Muriwai Beach.

Reports suggested that she was 2.5 to 3 kilometres out to sea and was found unresponsive by off-duty lifeguards when recovered by rescue craft. She was reported to be dead despite the efforts of two lifeguards to resuscitate her.

St John confirmed an ambulance and a rapid response unit also attended.

Meanwhile, a man in his 20s received moderate injuries and was taken to Auckland Hospital before being discharged yesterday.

New Zealand Police reported yesterday that they had been advised of a skydiving incident at around 7.43pm local time on Thursday, commenting “early indications are that a large group of people were skydiving when two of them have collided in the air.

“A female (sky)diver has sadly gone into the water and died at the scene.”

WorkSafe and the Civil Aviation Authority have been notified and the matter will be referred to the Coroner.

Skydive Auckland offers the highest tandem jump in New Zealand, from 6000 metres.

Image: Skydive Auckland promotional image.Used for illustrative purposes only. Credit: Skydive Auckland/Facebook.