Skydiver killed in Norwegian accident

Gary Cullen with Violet Maskell, then aged 90. Photo / APN

A champion skydiver and expert spearfisherman has died while parachuting in Norway.

Gary Cullen, 51, of Ruakaka, died of his injuries when a gust of wind caught his inflated parachute during a "ground launching" and he was dragged down a hill.

His sister, Kelly Cullen, said yesterday Mr Cullen's death was a huge loss to his family and Ruakaka.

"He was special - so full of adventure and smiles. He made everyone feel important," she said.

Mr Cullen's partner, Tracey Norton, and his friends Frank and Helen Conway had been waiting at the bottom of the hill for the "ground launching" to be completed.

This month, Mr Cullen travelled to Italy where he competed in the World Parachuting Championships for people over 40, winning two gold medals.

He was a New Zealand champion parachutist and skydiver and also represented the country in spearfishing contests.

Mr Cullen owned a butchery and worked as a tandem jumpmaster for Ballistic Blondes skydiving.

Violet Maskell, of Tikipunga went skydiving with him to celebrate her 90th birthday last December.

- APN