We all know that Regional Council issues have a bearing on the wellbeing of
Whangarei residents, particularly in times of real need.  And no more so
when it comes to the Regional Council availing itself to ratepayer funds to
support Northland’s helicopter rescue service to the tune of many hundreds
of thousands of dollars per year. 
It is interesting to read a recent National Business Review article calling
for the rationalisation of the current “unsustainable” services nationwide.
This “shake up” suggests the more than a dozen regional providers be
replaced by a single national body. It is claimed that this and other
efficiency measures would create savings of around $10-12million per year.
The article also cites the benefits of purchasing a national fleet of
fit-for-purpose helicopters to reduce running and maintenance costs. Given
the potential savings to ratepayers this option needs to be thoroughly
investigated by the Regional Council and discussed openly and constructively
with ratepayers.