There is nothing more welcome to those who need it than the sound of an approaching rescue helicopter, and that lifesaving sound will be used to encourage New Zealanders to give generously this Chopper Appeal Month.
Last year, 9,289 potentially lifesaving missions were flown by the national network of rescue helicopters - including 1,045 missions in the Auckland and Coromandel regions - and the need for fundraising support is growing every year.
Throughout the month of May, the sounds of the helicopter blades, signalling help at hand for those in distress, will overlay the usual audio during TV advertisements of trusted brands who support the cause, including Toyota, Lotto NZ, Spark, Chorus, Z Energy and Turners.
Last year, the Westpac Chopper Appeal raised a record $1.44 million for the rescue helicopter trusts around the country.
Westpac NZ Chief Executive, Catherine McGrath, says people who are saved by a chopper often tell their rescuers of their relief when they hear the helicopter.
"There's no greater sound when you need it, and our TV ad 'takeover' will bring that sound into New Zealanders' living rooms and hopefully encourage them to donate and support their local rescue helicopter service," Ms McGrath says.
"Rescue Chopper crews do a wonderful job all day, every day, all around the country to help keep communities safe. It's a longstanding partnership that means a lot to us, and every year our teams dig deep to raise funds."
Ms McGrath and other senior leaders will join Westpac teams in shaking a bucket on street corners around the country on the annual Chopper Street Appeal Day on Thursday 8 May. Other activities throughout the month include quiz nights, auctions, a gala ball, and the famous 230km Chopper Bike Ride from Queenstown to Invercargill.
Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust Chair, Jane Sheetz, says the public's generosity is essential to keeping its choppers and specialised crews operating.
"We take great pride in providing New Zealanders with first class medical care in some of their greatest times of need, and we rely on the generosity of New Zealanders to keep our choppers in the air," Jane Sheetz says.
"The money raised goes towards things like new equipment, maintenance and staff training, which cost more every year, making public support that much more valuable."
Westpac funds the marketing and administration costs of the Chopper Appeal - in addition to its sponsorship arrangements - and distributes all funds raised back to donors' local rescue helicopter trust.
People wishing to make a donation or find out more can visit www.chopperappeal.co.nz.
