A Matakana Island local had to be flown to Tauranga Hospital with breathing difficulties last night.

The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter conducted the flight using night vision equipment to transport the 32-year-old man to hospital after he began to have trouble breathing as a result of an ongoing injury suffered while playing rugby.

Due to access difficulties at night for an ambulance the helicopter crew were tasked with the mission. The flight crew stabilised the man and he was flown immediately to Tauranga Hospital for further treatment.

Meanwhile, a 43-year-old Raglan man has been flown to Waikato Hospital after suffering a heart attack while out hunting last night.

The Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew at the scene of last night's rescue flight west of Hamilton. Photo: Supplied.

The Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter was sent to the ranges, west of Hamilton to retrieve the man who had to be winched off a hill using night vision equipment and the helicopter's NZCT-provided rescue hoist.

Accompanied on-board the helicopter by his father, the man was flown to Waikato Hospital.