Rescue Coordination Centre Mission Coordinator Geoff Lunt said that a Taupo based helicopter had been despatched, having refuelled at Auckland’s Ardmore airfield. The helicopter departed Ardmore at 1:25pm and is expected to reach Raoul Island at around 6:00pm this evening.
“The large twin engined helicopter can carry up to 30 passengers and crew and is one of only a limited number of helicopters in the country capable of making the round trip to Raoul”, said Mr Lunt.
A fixed wing aircraft will accompany the helicopter to provide top cover, but will be unable to land as the Kermadec Islands do not have an airstrip.
“If the missing DOC staff member has not been located before the helicopter’s arrival, it is hoped that the conditions will allow it to carry out a search of the Island for that person”, Mr Lunt said.
Mr Lunt said that the helicopter is expected to return to Auckland with the DOC staff this evening , but the exact timing will depend on weather conditions, whether or not the missing staff member has been located, and the time needed to refuel and turn the helicopter around.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
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