Sick tramper airlifted to hospital

Maungahuka hut in teh Tararua Ranges. Photo / Supplied

A tramper was airlifted to Wellington Hospital after becoming unwell while tramping in the Tararua Ranges, north of Wellington, this morning.

The Wellington-based Westpac Rescue helicopter, with a paramedic on board, was called to the Maungahuka hut at approximately 10.45am.

"Despite windy conditions and nearby misty cloud we were able to land close to the hut" said helicopter crewman Colin Larsen.

The patient, a 64 year old Levin man, was suffering from shortness of breath, but was able to walk the short distance to the helicopter with assistance from the crew and paramedic.

He was flown to the Wellington Hospital emergency department where he was being further assessed and treated.

- NZPA