New Northland rescue helicopter due in 2023

7 Nov, 2023

A new helicopter will join the fleet of Northland Rescue Helicopter in 2023 as the service plans for the future, says CEO Craig Gibbons.

“We plan to buy another Sikorsky S-76C++ to join our other two in the fleet. Our exceptional team of engineers will have it operational in the second half of 2023 which will give us a more modern fleet,” says Mr Gibbons.

The purchase and fit out will cost around $4 million, meaning the 2022 annual fundraising appeal for Northland Rescue Helicopter is of even more importance.

“Every year we need to fundraise a minimum of $1 million dollars to help cover our operational costs and with the need to buy a new helicopter our annual appeal holds even more importance this year and in 2023.

“We are very grateful to the people of Northland for their ongoing generosity and the purchase of the hew helicopter is so we can continue providing the best service and care for our community.”

The announcement comes on the back of the retirement of Northland Rescue Helicopter’s longest serving Sikorsky S76 ‘Lima’, which is now 42 years-old.

Lima has been part of the Northland Rescue Helicopter fleet the past 18 years and flew 5000 hours helping people in Northland.

She also helped out in the aftermath of the Christchurch Earthquake in 2011.

Lima was brought to life in recent years in the form of a popular children’s book, Lima Leaps To The Rescue, which follows Ollie and Tia on their sand dune adventure at Ahipara.

Her retirement coincides with that of Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST) Trustee David Keys, who has stepped down from the Board after 15 years of outstanding service.

NEST Chair Paul Ahlers says it has been a privilege working alongside him.

“David always remained focused on making sure that we maintained our service in Northland. On behalf of the Board and the entire NEST team, I’d like to thank David for his service and the valuable contribution he has made to our community over his time,” says Mr Ahlers. 

Mr Gibbons has also paid tribute to Mr Keys for the immense support has given the organisation.

“Ever since I took on the CEO role, David has been nothing but supportive and has always been willing to share his immense knowledge of the organisation and the sector,” says Mr Gibbons.

Northland Rescue Helicopter CEO Craig Gibbons, left, with retiring Northland Emergency Services Trust Trustee David Keys and NEST chair Paul Ahlers.