Next, our group visited the paramedics with the second waka topatopa outside. We tried on the earmuffs and headsets. Helicopters are exceptionally loud because the rotor blades are moving large volumes of air, and the engines themselves are VERY noisy. Passengers wear earmuffs to help reduce the impact of the noise, while the crew wear headsets to communicate. They also showed us their collapsible rescue basket for quick rescues and their flotation device for sea rescues.

As the rain clouds started to gather, it was time to say ka kite and head back to our centre. On the way back, we stopped for a drink, a few biscuits, and a quick play at the park.

Some Facts We Learnt

Northland rescue helicopters cover one of the largest areas in New Zealand. All three of their helicopters are equipped for both land and sea rescues, making them one of only a few regions that do this. They land in places where ambulances can't reach, in hard-to-reach areas. At a top speed of 280 km/hr, they are very fast. Each helicopter carries two pilots, two paramedics, a patient, and a support person. Currently, they respond to 1100-1200 emergencies a year, 28,000 since 1988. For every one hour of flight time, there are four hours of maintenance and system checks.

BestStart Kensington Crossing

Book a visit

Enquire now

Latest news & upcoming events