Air Rescue Centre Opens
14 January - While responding to Masterton Hospital to retrieve an injured patient, the rescue helicopter hits trees in the Tararua Ranges. The helicopter is severely damaged but lands safely and all four on board are relatively unscathed. A replacement helicopter is obtained to continue the service.
3 March - The new Life Flight Air Rescue Centre is officially opened by the Governor-General. The centre is dedicated to air ambulance and air rescue work.
After extensive research the Trust decides that a BK117 continues to be the best helicopter for our rescue work. Trustees decide that the time has come for the community to own its own rescue helicopter (instead of leasing).
October - our 10,000th mission is performed.
19 December - 'a $2.8 Million Investment in Our Region's Health' - the newly purchased Westpac Rescue Helicopter arrives in Wellington after a three-month 'fit out'.
