Northlanders asked to give generously to rescue helicopter service

 

More than 5,500 rescue missions were undertaken by rescue helicopters around New Zealand last year with 1,047 patients carried in Northland alone. 

As part of this month’s nationwide Westpac Chopper Appeal, the Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST) is asking Northlanders to give generously and get behind their local helicopter.

The Appeal aims to raise funds and continued awareness for the 10 charitable rescue helicopter trusts operating around the country, with all donations going back to the region they are collected from.

Westpac’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Sue Foley, said New Zealand’s rescue helicopter services are paramount to the many life or death situations thousands of Kiwis face each year.

“Without this service the reality is many New Zealanders could lose their lives because help cannot reach them in time. It is such a vital and important service, and we encourage every Kiwi out there with friends and family they love to support it.”

Ms Foley said each rescue mission can cost thousands of dollars on average and includes a mix of ambulance and search and rescue work.

“The rescue choppers are fully equipped intensive care units providing a dedicated 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service. They can deal with anything from premature babies, cardiac arrests with the on-board AED (automated external defibrillator), to boating and car accidents in remote areas of New Zealand.”

The choppers are called on when medics think getting a patient to hospital quickly will make a big difference. They also assist with accidents in difficult locations and support search and rescue and fire operations. 

The majority of funding for this unique service comes from the community – through sponsors like Westpac, a proud supporter for more than 30 years, and other fundraising activities. 

NEST Chairman Paul Ahlers said contributions from the Northland public support what is a vital service to the region.

“We’re grateful for the continued support from our local communities and couldn’t do what we do without their help. It’s this generosity that allows us to carry out local rescue missions on a daily basis making a huge difference in many people’s lives.” 

Running throughout May, the Westpac Chopper Appeal is supported by open days at the helicopter bases, a variety of fundraising activities in schools and community centres, as well as a nationwide street appeal on Friday May 30.  

Westpac funds the marketing and administration costs of the Appeal, and distributes 100% of funds raised back to the local rescue helicopter trust.

Donations for the 2014 Westpac Chopper Appeal can be made at any Westpac branch or online at www.chopperappeal.co.nz

VITAL: Donations will help keep our regional helicopter rescue service in the air.

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