Westpac Chopper Appeal sees record support

New Zealanders raised a record $1.5M for the national network of rescue helicopters during the Westpac Chopper Appeal.  

That is the highest total in the annual appeal’s history, and includes $276,180 raised in the Auckland and Coromandel regions for the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust. 

Westpac NZ general manager product, sustainability and marketing Sarah Hearn, extends her heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to support the Chopper’s critical services in their area. 

A huge thank you

“That people give so generously goes to show how they value the Chopper crews and the life-saving services they provide,” says Hearn. 

“I want to say a huge thank you to those who donated to a collector on Chopper Street Appeal Day, cycled the 230km from Queenstown to Invercargill in the Westpac Chopper Bike Ride, took part in a bake sale, quiz night or auction event, or contributed in some other way.”

230kms across Southland

The Westpac Chopper Bike Ride is an annual fundraising event that has been going since 2011. This year, it was held on May 9 and also honoured Westpac Chopper Appeal fundraiser and joint organiser of the bike ride Reece McDonald, who died unexpectedly last October.

The event was attended by about 100 people, including Richie and Gemma McCaw and broadcaster Paddy Gower. It saw participants cycle for 12 hours across Southland, starting in the dark and torrential rain. However, the sun did come out in time for the four school visits made along the way.

Gower was also in attendance at the Westpac’s Wellington Quiz Night.

Remains in the regions

Hearn adds that every dollar remains in the region where it was raised and goes to their local helicopter trust, helping them meet the rising costs of equipment, supplies and training.

“Our staff are equally enthusiastic about working with locals to raise funds to help keep their communities safe. We’re proud that our connection with the rescue helicopters goes back over 40 years.”