>>> THE SQUARE TRUST RESCUE HELICOPTER

The Philips Search and Rescue Trust has operated the rescue helicopter in the Palmerston North region since October 1991. The current principal sponsor is The Square Trust, a Palmerston North-based gaming machine charitable trust, hence the name The Square Trust Rescue Helicopter.

To date the helicopter and its expert crew have performed over 4500 missions. The service continues to make a very real impact in improving the outcome for members of our community who are unfortunate enough to suffer serious illness or injury.

The Square Trust Rescue Helicopter performs around 500 missions per year. A mix of ambulance, inter-hospital transfers and Police work makes up these jobs. The unique properties of the AS 350 B2 Squirrel helicopter to respond quickly and easily to emergencies is a real asset. The thing that makes our service so special and that touches the lives of our community is the people. Our team is made up of Pilots, Paramedics, Flight Nurses and Police who work and train hard to ensure the best level of service is delivered. The community, service groups and local businesses that support the service with donations of time, money, goods and services make this work possible.

Hangar

The Square Trust Rescue Helicopter is situated on the Palmerston North Hospital grounds, resulting in only a short stretcher journey between the helipad and hospital. The hangar and office facility was built in 1992, sponsored by the Middle District Lions, constructed by the New Zealand Army and designed by Worley Consultants. A large number of local businesses contributed to the construction and building of the hangar and a board acknowledging them is situated inside the hangar.

Region

The Square Trust Rescue Helicopter operates from Palmerston North to all points throughout the Manawatu, Wanganui, Horowhenua regions, providing fast transport to the major hospitals in Palmerston North and Wanganui.