This International Women’s Day, the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter is honouring the vital contributions women make.

Among them is air crew officer and paramedic Kesia, identified only by her first name for privacy reasons, who offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at what a day in her life can look like.

For Kesia, no two shifts are the same; they can begin at either 7am or 7pm. Regardless of the start time, preparation begins early.

“There isn’t a typical day on the rescue helicopter,” she says.

“We never know where we will be flying next. There could be a hospital transfer, a motor vehicle accident, or a search and rescue beacon job.”

As an air crew officer/paramedic, Kesia works in a dual role combining aviation and emergency medical response.

She acts as the pilot’s second set of eyes and ears while supporting the critical care flight paramedic during missions. She’s an essential link in the chain that keeps each operation running safely and smoothly.

Her shift begins with core checks: fuel levels, oxygen supplies, and ensuring all medical and rescue equipment is onboard, functional, and securely stowed. She then meets with the pilot for a briefing on the day’s weather, flight conditions, aviation notices and any additional aircraft or base duties that need attention.

What follows is always different.

From varied landscapes to the people she assists, each mission brings new challenges and opportunities to apply and grow a wide range of skills.

One element, however, remains constant: training.

With the unpredictable nature of rescue work, ongoing practice is essential. On quieter days without callouts, the crew focus on medical training, aviation skills, and thorough inventory checks to ensure readiness for whatever comes next.

The Bay of Plenty's Aerocool Rescue Helicopter during a mission. Photo / PRHT

In 2025, the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter completed 619 missions, reflecting just how crucial the service and its staff are to the region.

This International Women’s Day, the organisation extends its heartfelt thanks to Kesia and all the exceptional women contributing to life‑saving work in the air and on the ground. Their dedication impacts hundreds of families each year.

The Aerocool Rescue Helicopter relies on community generosity to continue operating. Donate here to support it.

Supplied content