Rotorua Trust is pleased to support the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club and its vital operations, including the First Response Unit (FRU). In 2022, Rotorua Trust funded the first response van.
For more than thirty years, the Rotorua Mountain Bike Club has significantly contributed to recreational opportunities in the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest.
- With an average response time of just 10 minutes, the FRU stands ready to provide immediate medical assistance to forest users.
- During a busy summer weekend, 3,500 riders can be found in the forest on a single day.
- The FRU service operates in the forest every day of the year.
- Each callout averages 1½ hours to complete.
- Common injuries include fractures, soft tissue injuries, head injuries, wounds, sprains, dislocations, spinal issues, and medical events, often occurring multiple times per rider.
The FRU saves lives by offering a rapid medical response in emergencies and reducing the risk of further serious injury, especially spinal and brain injuries. Some incidents in the forest are inaccessible for ambulance officers, and this is where FRU medics support with gear, fitness, and geographical knowledge of the area. Additionally, ambulance officers cannot venture more than a kilometre from their vehicle (per St John protocol).
This photo showcases others partnering to support the First Response Unit. If you ever need assistance in the Whakarewarewa Forest, call 0800 Whaka 1.
Photos: Tracey Scott – thank you for supporting the Rotorua MTB Club by taking these photos. https://rotoruaphotographer.co.nz/