Even in the middle of the COVID-19 lockdown, southerners dug deep to support their local rescue helicopter service.

A total of $76,418 was donated to the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust as part of the annual Westpac Chopper Appeal.

Nationwide, the fundraising appeal totalled $1,650,661. This was made up of a $1 million donation from Westpac to cover a fundraising shortfall caused by COVID-19 related disruptions, plus an additional $650,661 fundraised through the Appeal campaign. 

With public events and the annual Street Appeal Day cancelled due to social distancing restrictions, Westpac staff and their families got creative to help raise money, engaging in everything from handcrafting earrings for sale, to sponsored walks, to making a range of jams and chutney to sell to friends, family and colleagues.

Westpac NZ CEO David McLean said the bank was humbled by the generosity and ingenuity shown by New Zealanders towards their local rescue helicopters.

“It has been a really tough few months for the choppers, who continued to fly life-saving missions while dealing with increased costs around PPE and decontamination of equipment, as well as the cancellation of so many fundraising events,” Mr McLean said.

“To everyone who has gone the extra mile to support the vital service they provide, we’re incredibly grateful.”

Donations are welcome throughout the year and can be made online at or any Westpac branch.