Rescue helicopters save lives and Tauranga residents are being asked to help them to continue to do so by supporting the annual Chopper Appeal.
The Chopper Appeal aims to raise funds and continued awareness for the rescue helicopter services with all donations going back to the region they are collected from.
Running throughout May, the Westpac Chopper Appeal is supported by fundraising activities in schools and community centres, as well as a nationwide street appeal on May 18.
More than 7000 missions were undertaken by local rescue helicopters last year including 203 in the Bay of Plenty region.
Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter base manager and pilot Liam Brettkelly said rescue helicopters save lives.