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The
Sikorsky S76A helicopter has an operating radius of 270kms from its base
in Whangarei. This long range capability allows the helicopter to
provide coverage to all of Northland and most off shore rescue work.
Our
base is located at the St John Ambulance headquarters in Whangarei, which provides
an efficient liaison with our paramedics. Our helicopter is always
pre-flighted and ready to go as soon as any call comes in.
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A Brief
History
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1988
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NEST was formed & we
leased a Jet Ranger
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1991
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Bought the Jet Ranger
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1991
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Sold the Jet Ranger to buy a
Squirrel
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1994
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Bought a BK117
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1997
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Upgraded to the current
Sikorsky S-76
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Click
here to see 2004 Revenue and Expenditure
Emergency
Rescues
Our
helicopter has performed numerous rescues around Northland. The S-76 is fitted
with a winch and (optional) long range tank which gives the helicopter
an extended range if required. The paramedics and crew are fully
trained for any situation which may arise, including winching and repelling from the aircraft. The
helicopter is able to respond immediately to any rescue call, and is
capable of operating in all weather conditions.
Hospital Transfers
With
the centralisation of specialised medical services, it is often
necessary to transfer patients between hospitals. Due to the operating
capabilities of the S-76, our helicopter has become the ideal
transport for critical and serious cases.
The S-76 is both large and fast - it can accommodate two
stretcher patients, two sitting patients, and two flight crew, and is
fully kitted out with all of the necessary medical equipment.
The
S-76 is capable of transferring a patient from Kaitaia to Whangarei in
27 minutes, or from Kaitaia to Auckland hospital in 54 minutes.
Hospital
transfers represent a significant portion of the helicopter’s use.
Over the years, we have forged a strong relationship with Northland
Health, which has resulted in the development of air medical systems
that have been recognised internationally.
See a list of medical equipment carried on our helicopter.
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