Wellington, Jan 21 NZPA - The weather finally cleared enough to enable the placement of a koru-shaped memorial today at the site of the Mount Erebus crash.

The capsule, placed next to a cross, contains messages from relatives of the 257 people killed in the crash at Antarctica 30 years ago.

Attempts were made last November when family members flew to Antarctica, and again 10 days ago, to place the capsule, but weather conditions had made it too difficult.

Fairfax reported today that a helicopter carrying representatives from Scott Base and McMurdo Station was able to land at the site.

Christchurch Cathedral's Dean Peter Beck had prepared a 15-minute memorial service which was carried out by New Zealand chaplain, Father Philip Gibbs.

"I had thought we might see some of the wreckage still, but it is all covered. The mountain has claimed it," Fr Gibbs said.

Antarctica NZ programme manager Erik Barnes said the service was important to bring closure to the families involved.

NZPA WGT co gt