Donors are Key Members of Rescue Team

Donors are Key Members of Rescue Team

People who donate to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter service play a vital part in saving the lives of Kiwis young and old.

In a video promoting this year’s appeal, which starts on May 1, Westpac Ambassador Willie Apiata VC introduces Amanda Pepper to the team who saved the life of her baby girl Willow – first to the paramedics, then to Albert Heimuli, one of the thousands of New Zealanders who together donate more than $1million each year to keep the country’s 16 Rescue Helicopter Trusts aloft.

Westpac’s GM Marketing, Andy Kerr, says the helicopters provide a vital service that saves lives on a daily basis.

“These choppers often make a life or death difference.”

Mr Kerr says thousands of people around the country will need to be rescued this year and funds donated are going directly into the operational costs of making these helicopter rescues possible.

“Big or small - every donation counts. Your generosity will make a tangible difference.”

The choppers are called on when 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 Westpac Chopper Appeal is supported by fundraising activities in schools and community centres, as well as a nationwide street appeal on Friday May 5.

Ways you can donate to the Chopper Appeal:

• At any Westpac Branch

• Online at www.chopperappeal.co.nz

• Text your postcode to 2449 to make a $3 donation.*

Westpac is the principal sponsor of the Auckland, Waikato, Wellington and Canterbury Westpac rescue helicopters. The annual Westpac Chopper Appeal helps raise funds for all regional rescue helicopter services around New Zealand.

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