Stories
October 13, 2025
Kawau Island resident Philip recently shared his “epic misadventure” after a fall from a water tank left him with a severely fractured heel. Initially hoping it was only a sprain, it quickly became clear the injury was far more serious. His wife immediately called emergency services. Then neighbours, along with local responders, rallied to stabilise him and move him by inflatable dinghy to a Kawau Cruises vessel.
With the tide turning and rough seas making a boat transfer to hospital unsafe, the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked. The crew landed at Schoolhouse, the safest location for a rendezvous, where Philip was transferred from the boat. On arrival, the clinical team immediately provided advanced pain relief and treatment before carefully loading him into the helicopter. Within minutes, he was airborne and on his way to Auckland City Hospital for specialist care.
Philip’s heel was later confirmed to be fractured in six places, requiring reconstruction with a titanium plate and ten screws. “It has been a difficult journey so far, and there are still several months to go before I will be able to walk unaided,” he said. Philip expressed his deep gratitude to everyone involved in the response, and especially to the rescue helicopter crew for getting him to hospital so quickly.
This incident highlights the vital role the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopters play for island and coastal communities, where access to advanced medical care often depends on the speed and skill of the crew in the air.
