Man dead, another critical after hang gliding accident at Lennox Head

A man has died and another is in a critical condition after a hang gliding accident at Lennox Head.

NSW Ambulance said bystanders managed to get to the two men after they fell from the hang glider just after midday.

They began CPR until paramedics arrived but a man, who is believed to be an instructor aged 67, died at the scene.

A 26-year-old Irish tourist was winched up by the Westpac Life Saver Rescue helicopter and taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.

NSW Ambulance Inspector Greg Powell said the rescue was "extremely complex... due to the surrounding terrain and location of where the hang-glider crashed".

He said patient safety and care was paramount but crews also needed to ensure their own safety.

"We always do everything we can to try and get the best patient outcome, but unfortunately, in this instance there was nothing more we could do," he said.

"It was an extremely tragic accident and understandably everyone involved is devastated.

"The bystanders who came to help and commenced CPR prior to our arrival should be commended.

"All the emergency services worked closely as a team and are supporting each other after the incident."

The lookout is a popular hang gliding spot about 20km south of Byron Bay in the NSW Northern Rivers.