A rescue helicopter assisted Police in a spotlight search for a vehicle in Gore last night after a laser beam was pointed at the same helicopter from a vehicle on the ground.

Around 8.15pm last night, a rescue helicopter was returning to Dunedin after taking a vehicle crash patient to Southland Hospital in Invercargill.

According to a Police media statement, a laser beam was pointed from a vehicle on the ground towards the helicopter as it flew over Gore's central business area. 

Police say the helicopter was able "to observe" the vehicle until Police attended. Advocate South understands a spotlight was used to track the car.

"Police are speaking to a 33-year-old local male in relation to the incident," the statement says.

"The man would not have known that the helicopter had already dropped off the patient. This is an extremely dangerous incident with the potential to put the lives of the crew and the public at risk as the incident occurred over a residential area.

"It was a reckless act that endangered the lives of others and is being treated seriously by local Police."

Police would like to hear from members of the public regarding the incident and urge them to contact Gore Police on 03 203 9300.  

Information can also be passed on anonymously Crimestoppers of 0800 555 111.