New pilot delighted with rescue role

Ben Fry is the new BayTrust Rescue Helicopter pilot. Photo / Stephen Parker

Rotorua's BayTrust Rescue Helicopter pilot might be new to the area but he comes with years of experience.

Ben Fry has had a lifelong passion for aviation, which started as a kid on his parents' Northland farm.

He's looking forward to swapping top dressing and precision lifting for helping people in their hour of need.

"When I was a kid I went for a ride in a plane and I thought that was cool," Mr Fry said.

"I grew up on a farm and one day a helicopter came to do some spraying. I thought the helicopter was far more exciting than an aeroplane."

When he left school he went to work with Skyworks Helicopters in Warkworth as grounds crew. He took lessons with a flying school and gained his pilot's licence in 2003. He's been working as a full-time commercial pilot since 2006.

"This was a good opportunity to learn some new skills and take the next step. It's the sort of work I've not been exposed to.

"To use my helicopter skills to help people who need it was also quite appealing."

Mr Fry is up to operational standard for day flights and by the end of this week will be fully trained in night-vision goggle work so will be able to be rostered for either shift. He is also learning the landmarks from the air, including the lakes, mountains and forest.

His wife and three children are still in Warkworth but will be moving soon. They were looking forward to exploring the "playground" Rotorua had on offer.