Early this morning, a hot air balloon experienced a “rough landing” in a paddock near Luggate, causing damage to fences in the area.

According to a spokesperson from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the incident was reported around 8:30 am when the balloon had a less than smooth landing near Queensberry, south of Luggate. Crews from Wānaka and Luggate quickly responded to the scene, where fortunately, all occupants had safely exited the balloon.

Thankfully, the damage was described as “reasonably minor,” although the hot air balloon did manage to take out a couple of fences, potentially on farmland where it landed.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Email: tim.scott@odt.co.nz