Weather hampers recovery of downed plane in Southern Alps

Searchers have located a downed light plane near Mt Nicholson in the Southern Alps, after it went missing this morning.

The Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) says the plane was located this afternoon by a Christchurch-based rescue helicopter.

The plane had left Franz Josef at approximately 9am this morning bound for Rangiora.

Air Traffic Control reported it overdue at 11am.

One person was onboard.

Due to inclement weather, it is currently too dangerous to access the area.

RCCNZ is currently coordinating with partner agencies on next steps for the response.

Main image: The plane departed Franz Josef this morning.