The new red H145 arrived in the region this week and will replace the familiar green BK-117 that has served Tairāwhiti communities for many years.

Eastland Helicopter Trust Chairman Ian Parker says the arrival is a significant milestone for the service and the communities it supports.

“This is much more than a new helicopter. It’s an investment in our ability to reach people when they need us most and provide the highest level of care possible, wherever they are in Tairāwhiti,” Mr Parker says.

The aircraft is part of a wider renewal of New Zealand’s rescue helicopter fleet, with new and near-new aircraft being introduced around the country. Aircraft purchases are jointly funded by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).

Mr Parker says the new aircraft demonstrates what can be achieved through partnership between Government and the communities served by rescue helicopters.

“We’re extremely grateful for the Government investment that has made this new aircraft possible, but community support remains as important as ever.

“Our Trust continues to raise funds for specialist equipment, training and other resources that support the service. Every donation, sponsorship and fundraising event helps us provide our crews with what they need to care for patients across our region.

“Tairāwhiti has always stood strongly behind its rescue helicopter and this is another chapter in that partnership.”

While the H145 has now arrived, it will not immediately become fully operational.

Preparations for the transition have been underway for some time, with crews already completing training and familiarisation ahead of the aircraft’s arrival. That work will continue over the coming weeks as the service prepares the H145 to enter full operational service.

During this period, people around Tairāwhiti can expect to see both the new red H145 and the familiar green BK-117 in the skies.

“Our crews have put a huge amount of work into preparing for this transition, and having the aircraft here allows the next stage of that work to take place,” Mr Parker says.

“For a while, Tairāwhiti will have two very distinctive rescue helicopters in our skies. The green BK will continue to play an important role while we complete the transition to the red H145.”

The H145 D3 brings a number of improvements over the BK-117, including a larger cabin and advances in aircraft technology and safety.

The Trust will formally unveil the new helicopter at a special event in October, when it will share more about the aircraft, its capabilities and what it will mean for rescue helicopter services across Tairāwhiti.

The event will also provide an opportunity to recognise Government, organisations, supporters and the wider community who help make the service possible.

Mr Parker says while the arrival of the aircraft is something to celebrate, its real significance will be measured in the difference it makes for patients.

“Whether you live in Gisborne or one of our most remote communities, you should have access to the best possible emergency care when you need it most.

“That’s ultimately what this helicopter is about – giving our crews an even greater ability to bring that care to you.”

Photo credit: Kevin Weatherley.