Rescue helicopter open day

The BayTrust Rescue Helicopter will be opening its hangar doors to the Rotorua community on Sunday March 10 for its annual Open Day.

BayTrust Rescue Helicopter pilot and base manager Barry Vincent said the free, fun day was for the whole community.

"Our community plays a large role in funding the operational costs for this chopper so we see this as a great way to say thanks."

Mr Vincent encouraged members of the public to go along to get up close and personal with the city's rescue helicopter.

"Have a seat inside and put on the pilots helmet."

From 10am until 2pm the Rescue Hangar at the Rotorua Hospital will be open to the public. Along with the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter all of the emergency services involved in the operation are also on display.

"Seeing the equipment used by the Armed Offenders Squad wear is really exciting for the kids, so are the Police dog handler demonstrations," Mr Vincent said.

People can have their face painted or drop in their colouring competition entry to win a flight in the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter.

Mr Vincent said he was hoping for a record attendance this year.

"We really encourage everyone to come down and be involved, we hope to see you there."