Rescue helicopters save lives and Tauranga residents are being asked to help them to continue to do so by supporting the annual Chopper Appeal.
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 collectedfrom.
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 May 18.
More than 7000 missions were undertaken by local rescue helicopters last year including 203 in the Bay of Plenty region.
Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter base manager and pilot Liam Brettkelly said rescue helicopters save lives.
"It's a really simple, straightforward fact. But to save lives they need money. And that's where you come in.
"The people we rescue are just like you. They are someone's mum, daughter, friend, work-colleague, next-door neighbour. And all these people have one thing in common - they never thought they'd need a rescue helicopter."
Westpac NZ general manager of consumer bank and wealth Simon Power said the helicopters meant the difference between life and death for many New Zealanders.
