A teenage boy was airlifted to Waikato Hospital after a motocross accident in Tokoroa on Sunday.

Philips Search & Rescue Trust fundraising and marketing manager Sharni Weir said the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter was sent to the motocross track for a teenage boy who had fallen off his motorbike and had ‘critical, life-threatening injuries.’

The crew stabilised the teen at the scene and he was airlifted to Waikato Hospital within 25 minutes for further treatment, the spokeswoman said.

South Waikato Motorcycle Club made a social media post about a serious crash at the club’s first meeting for 2023 at the Amisfield track on Sunday.

 “Unfortunately a rider has had a crash which has resulted in him being airlifted to hospital for further treatment,” the post read.

“We as a club and committee wish him and his family a speedy recovery.”

“With recent events within our small MX community, the decision was made to cancel the remainder of [Sunday’s] racing to ensure the wellbeing of all officials and volunteers involved.”

It asked to respect the family’s privacy at this time.

Hato Hone St John was notified of a motor vehicle incident at 4.07pm on Sunday and responded with one helicopter and one ambulance.

It assessed and treated one patient who was airlifted to Waikato Hospital in critical condition.

A young motocross rider died during an event in Taupō during the opening round of the Taupō Winter Series at Digger Mcewen Motocross Park, hosted by the Taupō Motorcycle Club on April 30.

The Philips Search & Rescue Trust spokeswoman said: “In a life-or-death situation, it is the speed and agility of the rescue helicopter that can make all the difference.”

She said this essential service can reduce disability and improve the chance of survival.

Donations to the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter can be made at: https://give.rescue.org.nz/event/greenlea-rescue-helicopter/donate.