Gisborne rescue chopper’s busy year: 265 missions, 478 flight hours, 129 patients

The Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter completed 265 missions last year, logging 478 flight hours and treating 129 patients.

The ongoing need for a rescue helicopter service in the region is underlined by figures released this week by the Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust, says trust chairman Ian Parker.

The Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter did 265 missions last year, logged 478 flight hours and treated 129 patients.

“This is a region where long distances, rural roads and isolated communities are part of everyday life,” Parker said.

“This service exists to make sure that no matter where you live in Tairāwhiti, you have access to advanced care.

“When every minute counts, we want the community to know that they can count on us.”

The range of calls the rescue crew responded to included hospital transfers, medical emergencies, trauma, and multi-agency responses alongside NZ Police, Fire and Emergency NZ and Hato Hone St John.

The helicopter flew to coastal settlements, rural highways, farming communities and remote townships across the East Coast.

“... Each call-out represents someone in our community experiencing one of the most challenging moments of their life,” Parker said.

The success of the rescue helicopter was also a story of community support.

“Backed by local sponsors, donors, volunteers and health partners, the service reflects a shared commitment to keeping whānau safe across the region.

“We are incredibly grateful to the people of Tairāwhiti who continue to stand behind this service. Their support helps ensure we can continue saving time and saving lives.”

For more information about the trust or to support the service, go to eastlandrescue.co.nz.