Appeal gives $30k to local rescue chopper

This year's Westpac Chopper Appeal has raised $30,259 for the Hawke's Bay Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter.

This is part of $1,307,810 raised across the country.

All donations from the Westpac Chopper Appeal are distributed back to the 16 rescue helicopter services across the country, meaning money raised locally, stays local.

Westpac's Director of Corporate Affairs, Sue Foley, said the total raised is another "fantastic effort".

"Kiwis from around the country have once again rallied strongly behind their local rescue helicopters to ensure they can continue to carry out life-saving rescue missions every day," says Ms Foley. "We'd like to say thank-you to everyone who contributed to the total through your donations, and in many cases, a lot of time to organise the wide variety of fundraising events this year.

"The reality is your generosity will make a tangible difference in saving people's lives."

Westpac employees were also crucial to the success of this year's result with fundraising initiatives organised around the country as well as hitting the streets to collect $84,221 in the nationwide Chopper Street Appeal.

Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust General Manager, Ian Wilmot said the trust was "very grateful" to the generosity of everyone who gave of their time, money and resources. "It means a lot to have the community rally behind what we do," he said.

- Donations are welcome throughout the year and can be made at chopperappeal.co.nz or any Westpac branch.