The Queenstown pilot killed in the plane crash at Fox Glacier was yesterday described by his peers as "very experienced" and "well liked".
Chaminda Senadhira (33) was a member of the Wakatipu Aero Club, where people yesterday gathered to deal with the loss of a friend and colleague.
Wakatipu Aero Club president Peter Daniell said Mr Senadhira "was a happy and personable guy. No-one would ever say a bad word about him. He was very well liked."
He was among the most experienced pilots for sky-diving flights in the area, having done more than 3000 hours of flying.
Mr Senadhira had lived in Queenstown for about three years with his wife, Nina. He was born in Sri Lanka, and lived in Germany before immigrating to New Zealand, initially settling in Auckland.
It is understood he also leaves behind a 5-year-old daughter. His wife is understood to be overseas, and could not be contacted.
