Chopper appeal raises $15,000

The money raised from this year's Westpac Chopper Appeal will keep the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter saving lives. Photo / File

Locals gave generously in this year's Westpac Chopper Appeal, raising more than $15,000 for the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter.

The $15,690.24 is part of just over $1.5 million raised across the country.

All donations from the Westpac Chopper Appeal are distributed back to the 16 rescue helicopter services across the country, meaning money raised locally, stays local.

BayTrust Rescue Helicopter base manager and pilot Barry Vincent was pleased with the support.

"We are immensely grateful to the entire community for supporting their local rescue helicopter during this Chopper Appeal. The success of this year's appeal will make a vital contribution to the operation of the region's rescue helicopter service. Thank you to Westpac for their time and resources towards such a fantastic result; this will ultimately make a difference to the lives we save."

Westpac's director of corporate affairs Sue Foley said there was an outstanding effort behind the total raised.

"New Zealanders have once again shown their support rallying behind their local rescue helicopters.

"We'd like to thank all of those who generously dug deep and donated, along with everyone who was involved in the fundraising events in their communities.

"The helicopters provide such a vital service that saves lives on a daily basis. It's important for us to continue to play our part and raise awareness as well as much-needed funds to keep them in the air."

Donations can be made at www.chopperappeal.co.nz, or any Westpac branch.