BayTrust Rescue Helicopter on call for Cyclone Cook

The Rotorua based BayTrust Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to the remote Te Urewera township of Ruatahuna last night.

The helicopter and on board team where called to assist with relocating a family to Minginui who require on-going medical care.

The Whakatane District Council Civil Defence team, requested the helicopter due to the flood and slip damage in the area.

The BayTrust Rescue Helicopter airlifted the family to Minginui where the roads are still open and allow them to travel to Rotorua for specialist care if required. The onboard paramedic who flew with the Helicopter, was also able to assist another local man while in the township.

The BayTrust Rescue Helicopter will remain in Whakatane for the duration of cyclone Cook to assist with any emergencies that may arise. BayTrust Rescue Helicopter Base Manager Ben Fry said ‘The helicopter team are working as part of the greater emergency services team in the area to assist in potential rescues and emergency situations throughout the cyclone.'

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