Mum pleads for helmets

Nick McCutcheon died after a scooter accident. Photo / Supplied

Like many in Thailand, Nick McCutcheon scootered around dusty and bustling roads with no helmet.

The 20-year-old and his mates enjoyed the freedom of relaxed helmet laws, until McCutcheon crashed into a parked bike and sustained massive head injuries.

He died in hospital on January 3 last year.

The next day, by chance, the local government launched a campaign calling for all motorcyclists to wear helmets.

Nick's parents, Denise and Nick McCutcheon, said their oldest son's death was pointless and urged others use the same common sense they would at home.

"I would say wear your helmet - if we could stop one family from going through what we have been through, it would be worth it," Denise McCutcheon said.

"When they are travelling they are relaxed and young men especially are full of bravado. It's a novelty not to wear a helmet."

Denise McCutcheon said her popular son was usually safety conscious.

"It is such a waste."

The mechanic with the Royal New Zealand Air Force called his parents eight hours before the crash and told them he was having a fantastic time.

As soon as she got the terrible news, the Christchurch mum was on the next flight and arrived at her unconscious son's side within 24 hours.