Media Statement
8 December 2006
For immediate use
Baby born in back of Westpac Rescue Helicopter
It wasn’t quite a manger in Bethlehem – but a place just as unusual! A baby boy from Whitianga was born in the back of
the Westpac Rescue Helicopter at 8.10am this morning, 8 December 2006.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter were tasked to Whitianga Airfield to meet a St John Ambulance and the midwife who were
looking after the mother.
After weighing up the situation they made the decision to fly the mother to the hospital to give birth.
Just as the rotors were turning for take off the baby decided to arrive. The helicopter began to shut down and within
seconds the baby was born in the back of the helicopter.
Once mother and baby were stabilised they were flown to Waikato Hospital.
This is one of only two births on the Auckland based Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
ENDS