Riders on tomorrows (9 May) charity Chopper Bike Ride from Queenstown to Invercargill will wear black armbands to honour one of the events long time supporter, Reece McDonald.

McDonald, a keen cyclist, Southland business leader, Chopper Bike Ride organiser, fundraiser and participant, passed away unexpectedly in October 2024.

In 2019 McDonald suffered a heart attach which required the lifesaving support of a rescue helicopter. He subsequently shared his experience to highlight the service.

Organiser and Westpac NZ Otago and Southland Regional Manager, Phil Taylor said while it wouldn't be the same without him, McDonald would be in their thoughts all the way.

This year's 230km ride will include its fair share of celebrities including All Blacks legend and Westpac NZ ambassador Richie McCaw, 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning rower and local hero Nathan Cohen, dual Commonwealth Games medallist and Black Sticks champion Gemma McCaw, former Black Stick, Diana Te Awa and award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Paddy Gower.

The 12-hour ride will stop at Mossburn School, Takitimu Primary School, Otautau School and Thornbury School along the way.

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This year’s fundraising target is a record $150,000, with all proceeds going to the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust to support the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service.

Last year the event raised $144,000, which was part of a nationwide total of over $1.4m.

Lakes District Air Rescue Trust Chairman, Jules Tapper, is grateful for the continuing support of regular riders and the star power that boosts the fundraising towards a vital cause.

“The Otago-Southland rescue helicopters flew 2,097 missions last year, saving countless lives with rescues and medical transfers across our remote and rugged lower South Island,” Mr Tapper says.

“It’s amazing to see the growth of the event over the years. There was a small pack of five riders at the first event in 2011, and it looks like more than 100 again this year. Over $1m has been raised over that time and the momentum is growing every year.”

People can donate to the ride now by visiting Chopper Bike Ride 2025 - Givealittle