A light aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing near Rangiora Airfield.

A police spokesperson said the plane had an issue on take-off and the pilot performed an emergency landing in a paddock short of the runway.

The incident happened about 11am.

Five people were on board at the time, and only minor injuries have been reported.

An eyewitness near the scene said the plane landed in a small paddock with plenty of trees around.

“There was a good turnout of emergency vehicles, including 8 fire appliances. 7 on the road and one in paddock.”