WELLINGTON, Dec. 11 -- A helicopter crashed in New Zealand South Island's North Canterbury region on Wednesday morning.

A police spokesperson said the crash happened just 9:30 a.m., inland from State Highway One near Domett, south of Cheviot, Radio New Zealand reported.

Initial reports indicate the helicopter was on fire on the ground.

Police, the Fire Service, ambulance staff and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter are on their way to the scene, which is in rough country accessible only by four wheel drive.