There are fresh calls to keep the Coromandel's only rescue helicopter service, following a deadly crash near Thames.

Three people are dead and another is in a critical condition after two utes collided at the Kopu Bridge last night.

It comes just weeks after the Ministry of Health proposed air ambulance services be operated from 14 bases across three regions.

The list excludes existing services in Whitianga, Te Anau, Rotorua and Taupo.

Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust trustee Brian Bowering says if the proposal goes ahead, they'll have to rely on Auckland or Hamilton services.

"We need it here simply because we do not have the infrastructure such as a hospital or a major medical centre, we have atrocious roads."

Coromandel MP Scott Simpson agrees saying proposed changes would mean this high-risk area would have to rely on outside helicopter services.

"Whoever has drawn up the zones literally doesn't understand or doesn't know what happens in the Coromandel."