Call to give generously to support the Bay of Plenty rescue helicopter service

The bay trust rescue helicopter. Photo/File

As part of this month's nationwide Westpac Chopper Appeal, the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter is asking their community to get behind their local helicopter.

More than 7500 rescue missions were undertaken by rescue helicopters around New Zealand last year including 169 in the Rotorua region.

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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.

Westpac General manager marketing Andy Kerr said the helicopters provided such a vital service that saved lives on a daily basis.

"The country's rescue helicopter services often make a life or death difference for many New Zealanders. These choppers provide a dedicated 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service."

Mr Kerr said the reality was there would be thousands of people around the country that would need to be rescued this year and money donated was 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 in saving people's lives," he said.

The Bay Trust Rescue Helicopter winches a man of Mt Ngauruhoe. Photo/File

The choppers are called on when medics think 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 funding for this unique service comes from individuals in the community, fundraising activities, and sponsors like Westpac - a proud supporter for over 35 years.

BayTrust Rescue Helicopter Base Manager/Pilot Ben Fry said rescue helicopters saved lives.

"Because of your continued support, your community has the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter available 24/7, 365 days," he said

"Please give generously this Chopper Appeal to ensure your rescue helicopter is there if you ever need it."

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 Friday May 5.

Westpac funds the marketing and administration costs of the Appeal, and distributes 100% of funds raised back to the local rescue helicopter trust.

Your face could be on the side of the Westpac Rescue helicopter. Photo/Supplied

When we think about safety, we think about the people we love.

The choppers don't just save people, they save sisters, grandads, sons and best friends.

So this year, when you donate online or via text, Westpac are giving you the opportunity to upload a picture of yourself or someone you love onto the side of The People's Chopper.

Your image will be amongst the many loved ones and generous people of New Zealand, who have shown their support to help keep our Choppers in the air.

Without your donation, the thousands of yearly rescues just couldn't happen, as each mission generally costs around $5000.

In some areas of New Zealand the choppers are out on up to 10 missions a day.

For all kinds of medical emergencies, the choppers and paramedic staff work tirelessly to keep New Zealand safe, and we want to share your support by giving you a spot on The People's Chopper.

Go to https://www.chopperappeal.co.nz for more information and to donate.