Annual rescue helicopter appeal underway

 

As the 2019 Northland Rescue Helicopter annual fundraising appeal gets into gear, spokesman Paul Ahlers says he is looking forward to plenty of community involvement.

Ahlers, Trustee of the Northland Emergency Services Trust and CEO of the Northland Rescue Chopper Service, says there will be a number of community events – three fundraising breakfasts, a fundraising lunch and the launch of the latest children’s book ‘Cheeky Charlie to the Rescue’ – at three schools around Northland, one each in the Far North, Kaipara and Whangarei Districts.

“We receive tremendous support around Northland at these events and there is such a strong community spirit that shows through,” says Ahlers.

“The annual fundraising appeal is really important to us at this time of the year because we are ramping up for our busiest time of year. In fact, this year is already shaping up to be our busiest on record and we know the summer period with the influx of holiday makers will mean demand for our choppers will be higher than ever.

Rescue statistics have risen from 581 flights (772 hours) in 2011, to 999 flights (1397) in 2018.

“We appreciate the generosity that Northlanders show towards us every year and we simply couldn’t do what we do without that additional support, and the backing of our many long term sponsors, Northpower, Top Energy and the Northland Regional Council are especially pivotal in that.”

Northpower and Top Energy have sponsored the service since it launched back in 1988 and will again match public donations dollar for dollar up to $150k.

The Northland Rescue Chopper service is now home to two state of the art air ambulances, one of the largest aviation projects ever undertaken in Northland.

“We have significantly updated our fleet and have advanced avionics at hand and the highest levels of safety. Again we are looking forward to getting out there in the community over the next couple of months and saying thanks to the people of Northland for their ongoing support.”

 To donate visit nest.org.nz

Northpower and Top Energy have sponsored the service since it launched back in 1988.