The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was dispatched by Tauranga Hospital for an emergency transfer at 7 pm on Wednesday 27 December.

A 15-year-old male had been riding his skateboard on the Tauranga Harbour Bridge when the wheel on his skateboard hit an obstacle, propelling him forward and hitting his head on a rail causing a serious head injury.

He was stabilised at the scene by paramedics before being driven by road ambulance to Tauranga Hospital. Due to the nature of his injury, he was then flown by the rescue helicopter to Auckland Hospital in a very serious condition.

Philips Search and Rescue Trust (PSRT) is a charitable organisation, operating rescue helicopters throughout the Central North Island. Philips Search and Rescue Trust relies on support from principal sponsors and community donations. Special thanks to Tauranga’s principal sponsor’s, Trustpower and TECT. This crucial financial support ensures our rescue helicopters can continue to bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel and trauma-trained medics directly to the patient. For further information about PSRT visit our website rescue.org.nz

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