Rescue helicopter called to Te Kaha

The Tauranga-based Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter last night picked up a patient from Te Kaha.

Pilot Todd Dunham said the helicopter flew an 80-year-old man who was suffering from a medical condition to Whakatane Hospital at 5.30pm.

The patient was stabilised by St John paramedics and a local doctor before being flown to the hospital.

The helicopter was called due to the distance to the required hospital and the condition of the road, which is down to one lane due to a large slip.