It's time for the community to show their support for Northland's high-flying helicopter rescue teams.
The annual fundraising appeal is under way for the Northland Rescue Helicopter which has to the end of September flown 702 rescue missions in the region.
Paul Ahlers, trustee of the Northland Emergency Services Trust and CEO of the Northland Rescue Chopper Service, said as part of the appeal there would 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.
"We receive tremendous support around Northland at these events and there is such a strong community spirit that shows through," Ahlers said.
"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."