UPDATED 5.00PM: Photos showing the last moments of a hot air balloon when it hit power lines and burst into flames in Carterton have just been released.

Eleven people, including the pilot, were killed in the tragedy. 

PHOTOS: New Carterton balloon tragedy images released 

Coroner Ryan ruled that four photos taken of the Carterton balloon crash on January 7, 2012, which don't show those on board, should be released to media.

That decision was challenged in the High Court by photographer Geoffrey Walker.

The court sided with the coroner so an appeal was launched - but that's since been dropped.

The findings of Coroner Ryan into the deaths of those on board the balloon are yet to be released.