Multiple call-outs keep Gisborne-Tairāwhiti’s Eastland rescue chopper crew busy

The region's rescue helicopter team worked hard in the closing stages of January and that has continued into February. The chopper is pictured at Mahia in early January.

A busy first month of the year for the Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter, which included multiple call-outs on January 23 and 31, has continued into February.

The team responded to medical emergencies, trauma incidents, motor vehicle accidents and inter-hospital transfers, Eastland Rescue Helicopter Trust said in a media release.

On January 22, the crew flew to Tokomaru Bay after a vehicle accident. Two patients were assessed and treated at the scene by the onboard critical care flight paramedic before being taken to hospital in stable conditions.

In the early hours of January 23, the helicopter was sent to Tikitiki for a trauma incident. Later that day, the team flew to Wharekahika/Hicks Bay for a medical event. A third incident followed at 10.30pm, when the helicopter was sent to Te Araroa for a medical event.

Eastland Rescue Helicopter Trust acknowledged the support of St John colleagues working from their temporary emergency site at the Hicks Bay lodge, as well as Major Incident Support Team volunteers who provided power, internet and logistical assistance.

Further medical responses to Wharekahika/Hicks Bay occurred on January 25 and 31.

On January 26, the helicopter completed a transfer from Gisborne Hospital to Waikato Hospital.

A crash at Toatoa in the Bay of Plenty on January 29 resulted in a patient in a serious condition being flown to Middlemore Hospital.

Additional call-outs on January 31 included a crash in Te Araroa, a medical event in Wairoa - involving a transfer to Hastings Hospital - and a trauma response at Wharekahika-Hicks Bay.

The operational tempo has continued into February.

A transfer from Gisborne Hospital to Waikato Hospital was done on February 1.

It was followed by the crew being asked by police to join a search operation on February 4.

A rescue helicopter spokesman said the trust remained committed to providing critical emergency response and aeromedical care across the region.

“We acknowledge the ongoing support and collaboration of our emergency service partners.”