More than $60,000 has been raised for the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter following a charity gala in Mount Maunganui.

The Aerocool Rescue Helicopter Gala and Charity Auction, held on August 22 at the iconic Classic Flyers Aviation Museum, has been deemed an “an overwhelming success”.

The $60,800 raised at the gala event will directly support the operational costs of the rescue helicopter, helping ensure it remains ready to respond when lives are on the line.

Off-duty crew members joined guests for an unforgettable evening, with Aerocool base manager and pilot Liam Brettkelly taking to the stage to express his deep gratitude for everyone’s presence and, in turn, their support for the life-saving work he and his team carry out every day.

Aerocool base manager and pilot Liam Brettkelly on stage. Photo / Salina Galvan Photography

The on-duty crew were also present at the community event, stationed at the Classic Flyers Aviation Museum and ready for take-off when dispatched.

Hosted by beloved broadcaster Kerre Woodham – proudly sponsored by NZME and Newstalk ZB – the impact of the rescue helicopter was powerfully highlighted by Patient Speaker Geoff, who stood before the crowd as living proof of its life-saving importance.

Geoff recounted the day a scenic walk turned into a fight for survival, when a brain aneurysm with a 50% fatality rate struck without warning.

Geoff was swiftly taken to Tauranga Hospital, but his ordeal was far from over.

His condition was critical and the life-saving surgery he needed could only be performed at Waikato Hospital – nearly an hour and twenty minutes away by road.

Fortunately, the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter responded without delay, cutting the journey to just 15 minutes.

That rapid flight proved vital, getting Geoff to the operating theatre in good time and giving him the best possible chance of survival.

As the night continued, live auctions were presented by award-winning auctioneer Jordan Sievwright from Eves Real Estate, while the silent auctions were hosted via GalaBid – made possible by the generous support of Aerocool Rescue Helicopter sponsor Eves.

Attendees bid on a wide array of exclusive items, including a Poronui Safari Camp Glamping package, which sold for $2500; a Private Chef Experience and Personal Mixologist offering, which collected $2000; and a Mount Maunganui Weekend experience, which went for $2000. Many more sought-after auction items helped drive the evening’s fundraising total.

The event organisers – Westpac NZ and Philips Search and Rescue Trust – wish to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this unforgettable evening.

The efforts of the Westpac team deserve special recognition, with 28 volunteers generously giving their time to help organise the event and support its smooth running throughout the night.

Their contribution played a significant role in making the evening a resounding success.

Aerocool Rescue Helicopter crew. Photo / Salina Galvan Photography

Vanessa Richmond, general manager of Philips Search and Rescue Trust, shared her personal thanks, saying: “We simply could not do what we do without the support of the community … Whatever your motivation for being here this evening, it is appreciated by the thousands of people whose lives have been saved, or their recovery enhanced, by the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter.”

Community support is vital for keeping the rescue helicopter operational and saving lives at all hours, 365 days a year.

Catherine McGrath, chief executive of Westpac New Zealand, said: “Westpac has supported the rescue choppers for more than 40 years and we’re so grateful to the people all round the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel who give generously.”

The funds raised will ensure the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter can continue in its life-saving missions across the coastal Bay of Plenty - because you never know when you’ll need your rescue helicopter.

Donate now to save a life at https://give.rescue.org.nz/event/aerocool-rescue-helicopter/donate