Prime Minister Launches the New Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter

The Rt Hon John Key this morning officially launched the new Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter in the presence of over two hundred guests, dignitaries and media in Palmerston North.

The Prime Minister cut the ribbon after the machine was blessed by local Kaumatua, Wiremu Te Awe Awe. The Prime Minister recognised the courage and bravery of rescue pilots and crew saying that without them lives are on the line. The Prime Minister finished his speech with special mention to the people of the Manawutu and Whanganui regions for which this was a very special day.

Philips Search and Rescue Trust Chairman, Errol Millar said ‘rescue helicopters are an operational partnership between Government and community with around 50 percent of funding coming from individuals, clubs and groups and sponsorship.’

The purpose-built, twin engine BK117 helicopter, replaced the current single-engine AS350FX2, which has served the region for the last 24 years, and has been operational for six weeks. In this time it has carried out 35 potentially life saving missions.

Base Manager and Pilot Chris Moody said ‘this machine sets a new standard for VFR helicopters in New Zealand’ and he recognised that ‘what we do, we do together, thank you to the community for supporting this vital service’.

In 2014, alone, the Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter carried out 258 life saving missions touching the lives of hundreds more.

The service is governed by the Philips Search and Rescue Trust, which is a charitable organisation, operating rescue helicopters throughout the Central North Island. Philips Search and Rescue Trust relies on support from sponsors and community donations. 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. For further information about the Philips Search and Rescue Trust visit our websitehttp://rescue.org.nz

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