Injured Wellington biker airlifted to hospital

File photo / Brett Phibbs

An injured mountain biker was rescued by helicopter after falling off his bike on a trail in Wellington this afternoon.

The 51-year-old man had injured his ankle on the Town Belt behind Tinakori Rd.

He used his cellphone to call for help, but did not know his exact location or which track he was on.

Once over the area, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter managed to locate him within three minutes through a clearing in the trees and a paramedic was winched down and placed a splint on the man''s leg.

He was flown to Wellington Hospital's emergency department where he is being treated.

- Newstalk ZB