NZLSAR Standards

Section 6 (pages 31 to 35) of the New Zealand Land SAR Field Guide (Roger Curl, 1998. ISBN 0-473-04914-7), covers helicopter use. More information can be found as follows:

• 'Bushcraft - Outdoor Skills for the NZ Bush' (Goldring and Mullins, 1995. ISBN: 0-908931-11-5) Chapter 19 (Search and Rescue), pp 132 to 133, and
• The Wellington Life Flight Trust Westpac rescue helicopter

WLSAR Helicopter Training

From time to time, WLSAR members use the Westpac machine and the RNZAF Iroquios. On exercises, no-one can fly in the machines until they have completed the safety briefing. Where possible, the same requirements apply to operations. WLSAR members must attend all briefings associated with helicopter use.

Things to Remember

• Before approaching or leaving the helicopter, ensure that you have the attention of the pilot . Check by either obtaining a 'thumbs-up' acknowledgement, or by making eye-contact.
• Anyone approaching a helicopter or its landing area must be within the pilot's field of vision.
• Everyone must obey the instructions of the helicopter crew.
• When flying, ensure that you are secured to the machine (usually by a safety belt)