Woman airlifted from Whakatane to Waikato
The Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to Whakatane Hospital at approximately 5am this morning. The
helicopter carried an ICU retrieval team to assist in the transportation of a 22 year old Opotiki woman who had serious
chest and spinal injuries.
The woman’s injuries were a result of a car accident earlier in the morning and she was being flown to Waikato Hospital
for further treatment. The helicopter was used due to its ability to carry a specialist team directly to the patient and
swiftly transport her to Waikato Hospital for the treatment she required.
Philips Search and Rescue Trust is a charitable organisation, operating rescue helicopters throughout the Central North
Island. Philips Search and Rescue Trust relies on support from principal sponsors and community donations. Special
thanks to Waikato King Country's principal sponsor, Westpac. This crucial financial support ensures our rescue
helicopters can continue to bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel and trauma-trained medics directly to the
patient.
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