Rescue chopper appeal calls for Bay support

Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter. Photo/file

This year's Westpac Chopper Appeal are calling for people of the Bay of Plenty to support and donate towards their local rescue helicopter service.

According to a statement from Westpac, more than 5,900 rescue missions were undertaken by rescue helicopters around New Zealand last year, including 152 in the Bay of Plenty region.

The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter are asking locals to support their regional rescue helicopter by giving generously.

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Westpac's Director of Corporate Affairs, Sue Foley said in a statement that New Zealand's rescue helicopters provide such a vital service and are paramount to the many life or death situations.

"The reality is next time it could be any one of us, a member of our family or a friend," she said.

"We're encouraging as many people as we can to support such an important service as every donation makes a big difference."

She said each rescue mission can cost thousands of dollars on average and includes a mix of emergency services such as ambulance and search and rescue teams.

A rescue helicopter is called when paramedics think getting a patient to hospital quickly will make a big difference.

They also assist with accidents in difficult locations and support search and rescue and fire operations.

The majority of funding comes from the community, fundraising activities and from sponsors such as Westpac who have a supported the rescue helicopter service for more than 30 years.

Pilot Liam Brettkelly said he is proud to be part of the Tauranga, Bay of Plenty community who unfailingly support the Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter.

"With your help we can continue to be rescue ready 24/7."

Donations for the 2015 Westpac Chopper Appeal can be made at any Westpac Branch or online at www.chopperappeal.co.nz.