Aerocool Rescue Helicopter gala auction offers diamond ring, signed McCaw jersey

Aerocool Rescue Helicopter landing at Waikato Hospital. Photo / Supplied

The critical work of the Tauranga-based Aerocool Rescue Helicopter team will be celebrated and supported at a charity auction and gala.

To date, the helicopter has carried out 5632 missions around the coastal Bay of Plenty.

Among those helped is Geoff, whose last name has not been published for privacy reasons, said a statement from Philips Search & Rescue Trust - a charity that fundraises for and promotes a pool of North Island community rescue helicopters.

Geoff suffered a brain aneurysm while out on a scenic run with his wife and their dog, Pablo.

In many cases, such medical events carry a 50% fatality rate.

After his wife drove him to a medical centre, he was rushed to Tauranga Hospital, but he was not out of danger.

He needed urgent surgery at Waikato Hospital, about an hour and 20 minutes away by road. The Aerocool Rescue Helicopter made the trip in 15 minutes.

“That flight helped save his life, enabling him to receive critical surgery as quickly as possible.”

Geoff and Pablo. Photo / Supplied

Geoff recalled: “I got to say to the crew… ’you doing your job, to the best of your ability, has helped save my life.’”

 He was proud to support the rescue helicopter, ensuring it can be there for others in times of urgent need.

The Aerocool Rescue Helicopter Gala and Charity Auction will be held on August 22, in partnership with Westpac.

Organisers said it came with “a dazzling incentive to support a truly life-saving cause”.

Geoff with Aerocool crew. Photo / Supplied

The night will feature several standout auction items, with bidding led by EVES’ award-winning auctioneer Jordan Sievwright.

Auction items are up for grabs include:

• a 14-carat, gold 0.70ct laboratory-grown diamond ring, valued at $3499, generously provided by Michael Hill Fine Jewellers - Bayfair
• A signed and framed Richie McCaw 2015 Rugby World Cup #7 jersey and ball - thanks to Westpac and The Picture Frame Factory Shop - worth $1000;
• A luxe two-night retreat to Poronui Safari Camp for up to four guests, complete with top-tier accommodation and a $1400 activity credit, with a total value of $5250.

The gala event will be hosted at Classic Flyers Aviation Museum in Mount Maunganui, where guests will enjoy fine dining, bubbles on arrival, and live music by The Shy & Retiring Company Band.

Broadcasting legend Kerre Woodham - proudly sponsored by Newstalk ZB and NZME, publisher of the Bay of Plenty Times - will emcee the event.

All proceeds will fund future rescue missions, helping the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter continue its vital work across the region.

Tickets are available to buy via rescue.org.nz/aerocool-rescue-helicopter.