A father of two, tragically killed in a light plane crash, is being remembered as a community-minded man.

Tim Gibb was killed when his plane crashed in the Southern Alps yesterday morning.

He was the sole occupant.

The plane left Franz Josef at 9am on Thursday, bound for Rangiora when it was reported overdue, Maritime New Zealand said.

Plans to recover the wreckage were put on hold on Thursday and Friday due to bad weather.

In a heartbreaking post, his friends said “this is devasting news and a great loss to our very close-knit community.

“Tim Gibb known to many was not only a father to two very beautiful girls Sarah and Olivia but also a wonderful husband to Vanessa.”

The Give a Little post said “Tim was very well respected within the Franz Joseph community, being a deputy chief firefighter, who has given over 20 voluntary years to the service and his people, he was also the Civil Defence Officer for Franz.”

“Tim gave all of his time to everyone and anyone to ensure they always come first.

We are reaching out to the community for your support to help with immediate expenses to bring Sarah home from Croatia to support Vanessa and Olivia so they can grieve together as a family.”

Covid had been tough for his family who run Across Country Quad Bikes.

The company was founded by Tim and his wife Vanessa in 2007.

On the company’s website, it said “the Gibb family has been in Franz Josef Glacier since the 1860s so they are definitely true west coasters and thrive on showing off their slice of paradise to kiwis and tourist alike.”