Wildlife group upset over helicopter plan

A tourism proposal to fly helicopters over native bush on the West Coast has upset the Forest and Bird Society, which says it will disturb native birdlife.

The society says that under the plan, which has to be approved by the Grey District Council, helicopters could be flying up to 11 hours a day over the Paparoa National Park, 40km northeast of Greymouth.

Field officer Simon Johnson said the damage to the natural environment would outweigh any benefits.