At the core of our service is a fleet of rescue helicopters capable of reaching people in remote, difficult, and time-critical situations across our region. From winch rescues and accident responses to inter-hospital transfers and search and rescue, these aircraft let our crews deliver advanced clinical care wherever it's needed - from Cape Rēinga to the Coromandel, and beyond when required.
Supporting them on the ground are our Rapid Response Vehicles, which extend our reach by road and provide additional capability when flying isn't an option. Together, the helicopters and RRVs operate as one coordinated service across Northland, Auckland, and the Coromandel.
Below is a closer look at the aircraft and vehicles that make up the fleet.
Our modern, high-performing helicopter fleet is designed to meet the growing and complex aeromedical needs of our region, while delivering lifesaving services to our communities.
We are standardising our fleet with the addition of Leonardo AW169's to boost operational safety and reliability for modern patient care amidst demanding rescue environments.
Northern Rescue’s evolving fleet currently includes five AW169s, one BK117, and two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters. These aircraft support a wide range of missions - from winch rescues and accident responses to inter-hospital transfers and search and rescue operations - serving communities from Cape Rēinga to Coromandel, and beyond when needed across the North Island.
We are able to deploy up to three rescue helicopters in each region when required.
This transition is about more than new aircraft - it’s about delivering a safer, more reliable, and more efficient service for the people who depend on us. By investing in a modern, standardised fleet, we are strengthening our ability to be there when every second counts, for every community we serve.
Alongside our rescue helicopter fleet, we operate Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) from both our Whangārei and Ardmore bases - extending our reach and ensuring we can respond locally when flying isn’t an option.
These vehicles play a vital role in supporting our aeromedical operations. Staffed by our highly skilled clinicians, RRVs allow us to deliver urgent care on the ground, respond rapidly to incidents nearby, and provide seamless support to our helicopter missions.
Equipped with life-saving technology, our RRVs effectively bring aspects of a mobile, on-road emergency room to the scene. This capability has helped hundreds of people over the years - often in life-threatening situations - by enabling rapid, advanced intervention when and where it’s needed most.
Each RRV is outfitted with essential critical care equipment, including monitors, ventilators, LUCAS devices, ultrasound, syringe drivers, and oxygen. This level of capability significantly improves a patient’s chances of survival and recovery.
Our RRVs are made possible through the generosity of our major sponsor, SG Fleet, whose support goes above and beyond for the communities we serve. Their contribution ensures we continue delivering rapid, high-quality care - wherever it’s needed, whenever it matters most.
Join us to hear more about our mission, and how you can help save lives in your community.
