This year we've decided to go one better - we're not only a corporate supporter of the ARHT, this year we are a Gold Elite Mission Supporter.  The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust is one of the most trusted charities in New Zealand and they prove again and again to be the difference between life and death. 

No one wants to 'need' these guys but when the time comes, it's reassuring to know the ARHT (Auckland Regional Helicopter Trust) has a rescue helicopter just minutes away.  They can't offer this life-saving service without the support and donations of businesses and everyday New Zealanders. 

What does Gold Elite Mission Supporter mean?  Well, it means that our donation helps directly with the ARHT's ability to provide three full-time rescue helicopters to the Auckland region.  For that, we're pretty chuffed.

The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust's origins date back to the establishment of the Rescue Helicopter Service in 1970. That summer, the Auckland Surf Life Saving Association launched a world first in ocean rescue with the provision of the Hiller 12E helicopter.  This aircraft was used specifically for rescues from the surf on Auckland's west coast beaches, and the use of the helicopter for this purpose was a typical demonstration of kiwi ingenuity showing the way!

In 1990 a Charitable Trust was formed with Trustees selected from the community and business sectors of the greater Auckland region. The primary aim of the Trust is to provide and develop a highly efficient aeromedical service for the benefit of the community at large.

Today, the service utilises two state-of-the-art Leonardo AW-169 helicopters, one BK-117 helicopter and one Rapid Response vehicle to assist with local medical missions close by to our home at Ardmore Airbase.  These units are staffed by a highly experienced flight crew consisting of pilots, paramedics and crewmen, and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. In addition to this, the Pre-Hospital and Retrieval Medicine (PHRM) service complements the team with specialist trauma physicians to deliver the best possible standards of patient care.

If you're interested in finding out how you too can support the ARHT, check out their website https://www.rescuehelicopter.org.nz/