Susan BottingLocal Democracy Reporter·Northern Advocate·11 Sep, 2026 05:00 PM5 mins to read‌A rescue helicopter at Whangārei Airport in Onerahi. Photo / Sarah CurtisAn intensive care specialist involved in helicopter patient transfers has questioned the benefits of Northland’s rescue helicopter base at Whangārei Airport.The criticism comes as Northern Rescue Helicopter (NRHL) makes its first formal bid to secure a permanent future in Onerahi, despite ongoing noise complaints from neighbours.

Whangārei Hospital intensive