The dispatch was made by in response to the overturning of a small boat, depositing its three occupants in the water just under 100 metres off shore.

Called out at 9.20am, the rescue helicopter team joined Search and Rescue (SAR), which had launched two Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs).

The team first winched their critical care flight paramedic down to the scene then landed at Sponge Bay while the patient was assessed and treated.

They then returned to winch the patient and paramedic back up before returning to their landing site on the mainland.

Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust understands the patient was in stable condition when transported to Gisborne Hospital by Hato Hone St John.

The two other boaties were brought to Sponge Bay by IRB.

CAPTION: ON SCENE: TEAM WORK: Search and Rescue and the Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter at work at the scene of a boat capsize just off Tuamotu Island. Picture by Adam Glenister