Rescue helicopter support 'paid off'

The guitar signed by Elvis presley fetched $40,000 at yesterday's fundraising dinner, attended by John Eales (left), David Kirk (right) and Westpac helicopter supporter Rei Bristow. Photo / Greg Bowker

Truck driver Rei Bristow has donated to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter every year for 30 years because it was something he has always believed in.

This year the 51-year-old's donations paid off when the Auckland-based chopper helped save his life.

Mr Bristow was driving a load of avocados from Whangarei to Auckland when he "blacked out" and rolled his eight-wheel truck through the safety barrier and down a bank.

"I came to in the truck with the firemen holding me and chopping the cab away."

He was flown to Auckland Hospital with a dislocated hip and broken ribs. He also had chronic renal failure which doctors believe may have contributed to the crash.

Mr Bristow believes he would not have survived if it wasn't for the "awesome" helicopter crew.

"I owe my life to them."

Last night Mr Bristow was one of hundreds of guests at an International Rugby Legends Gala Dinner held at SkyCity to raise money for the Auckland Rescue Helicopter service.

Australian rugby great John Eales joined New Zealander David Kirk, South African Bob Skinstad and Englishman Will Greenwood to support the fundraising efforts.

Dr Kirk, who captained the All Blacks in winning the first Rugby World Cup tournament in 1987, said the helicopters were a "great cause".

"It helps people directly. There's a very tangible outcome for what they do, and that should be supported."

Mr Eales, who retired in September 2001 after captaining the Wallabies in many memorable victories including the 1999 World Cup, said it was wonderful to meet people who had benefited from the rescue helicopter, such as Mr Bristow.

The gala dinner auctioned memorabilia from sporting to musical items - including guitars signed by the Beatles and Elvis Presley.

The Elvis Presley guitar was sold for $40,000, and the Beatles instrument fetched $25,000.

It was hoped $100,000 could be raised for Auckland's two Westpac helicopters, which have helped 333 people this year.

The general manager of fundraising for the rescue helicopter, John Hooper, said funding was down this year, in part because many people redirected money to earthquake relief.