Saved by
the chopper

Stories from those rescued

Every mission tells a story

Read real stories about the impact Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopters have in our region.

A Canterbury farmer’s brush with death

“I was hyperventilating, I didn’t really know what was going on, so I was quite pleased to see the helicopter. The paramedics did a fantastic job at getting me the help I needed.”

Impact at a glance

108 missions to North Canterbury between January to August 2025.

455 missions across the wider Canterbury region between January to August 2025.

2024: 106 missions to Hurunui, 26 to Hanmer Springs.

Most flights are for medical emergencies (90% in 2025).

A new helipad + IFR route will cut response times and save more lives.

How to support

Be there. Your ticket
supports life-saving work.

Can’t attend? You can still make a life-saving donation.

Bid in our silent auction. Every dollar makes a difference.

Saved by the chopper