Charity to benefit from NZ Polo Open

NZ Herald

22 Jan, 2016 01:46 AM2 mins to read

The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust operates two Westpac Rescue helicopters, servicing the greater Auckland and Coromandel regions. Photo / Supplied

A rescue service is set to benefit from the divot-stomping and champagne sipping at the annual Land Rover New Zealand Polo Open next month.

Auckland's Westpac Rescue Helicopter Trust is again the official charity of the highbrow event.

Land Rover NZ Polo Open executive director Simon Wilson said $20,000 was raised for the service last year.

"The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter Trust has special importance to me as a helicopter helped to save my life a few years ago.

"At this coming year's NZ Polo Open we hope our spectators will join the ARHT marquee at the NZ Polo Open and support such a worthy cause," he said.

The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust operates two Westpac Rescue helicopters, servicing the greater Auckland and Coromandel regions.

They fly from Te Hana in the North to Port Waikato in the south and across to Waihi at the southern edge of the Coromandel.

ARHT fly over 1000 missions each year, ranging from accident and injury to emergency medical and search and rescue work.

ARHT event manager Nathan Turley said the event meant the charity could meet new audiences and even re-connect with members of the equine community they often helped.

"We have a strong connection to the equine community, as well as the local Clevedon community, flying several missions a year in the area to assist those in need."

The Vodafone-sponsored Westpac Rescue Helicopter Marquee tickets are currently $195 and include return transport to the event via luxury coach, gourmet food and a barbecue as well as beverages.

There is a Polo Ball raffle on the day that supports both Auckland Polo Club and the Westpac Chopper.