Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter Service has flown two patients to hospitals today, including a teenager who nearly drowned at Te Kaha.
Rescue Helicopter pilot Liam BrettKelly said this afternoon the rescue helicopter was called to Te Kaha Medical Centre to pick up a 17-year-old Taupo man.
The patient who
had gotten into difficulties while swimming in the surf, was initially taken by ambulance to the medical centre as a result of a near drowning, he said.
Mr Brettkelly said the helicopter flew the patient to Whakatane Hospital for further treatment, due to him swallowing a significant amount of sea water.
"There is always the risk of secondary drowning," he said.