What is being described by organisers as an exclusive event aims bring together the coastal Bay of Plenty community to honour the critical missions carried out by the region’s rescue helicopter.

To date, the Tauranga-based Aerocool Rescue Helicopter has carried out 5632 missions.

Among those helped is Geoff, whose last name has not been published due to privacy reasons, who suffered a brain aneurysm while out on a scenic run with his wife and their dog, Pablo.

Geoff and Pablo. Photo / Supplied

In many cases, such medical events carry a 50% fatality rate, said a statement from the Philips Search & Rescue Trust - the charity responsible for fundraising and promotion of the North Island’s largest pool of community rescue helicopters, including the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter.

“Knowing something was terribly wrong, Geoff’s wife drove him straight to the nearest medical centre, where a passing doctor immediately recognised that Geoff was in serious danger and called 111,” a trust spokesperson said.

“Geoff was rushed to Tauranga Hospital, but he wasn’t out of danger. Far from it. He needed urgent medical surgery to survive - at Waikato Hospital, which was about a one-hour, 20-minute drive away.

“Thankfully, the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter arrived swiftly and flew Geoff to Waikato Hospital in just 15 minutes. That flight helped save his life, enabling him to receive critical surgery as quickly as possible.”

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

Geoff is proud to support the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter, ensuring it can be there for others in times of urgent need - because you never know when you’ll need it.

Geoff with Aerocool crew. Photo / Supplied

The Aerocool Rescue Helicopter Gala and Charity Auction on Friday, August 22, is being held in partnership with Westpac.

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

Auction items are up for grabs include: a 14-karat, 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; and 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 event will be hosted at Classic Flyers Aviation Museum in Mt Maunganui where guests will enjoy fine dining, bubbles on arrival, and live music by The Shy & Retiring Company Band. Adding to the sparkle, broadcasting legend Kerre Woodham, proudly sponsored by NZME & Newstalk ZB, will emcee the event.

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

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

Tickets are available for purchase at https://events.humanitix.com/the-aerocool-rescue-helicopter-gala-and-charityauction/tickets