Your Stories - Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter | Philips Search and Rescue Trust

Do you have a story to share?

Patients and donors are at the heart of everything we do. Your stories are a powerful testament to human strength, courage, vulnerability, and hope.

Your stories inspire others and bring awareness to the lifesaving work undertaken by the highly skilled personnel onboard the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter, who are saving lives every day.

If you have experienced our service or held a fundraising event or activity for your rescue helicopter, you have a story to tell, and we’d love for you to share it with us. Click here to share your story.

May 8, 2023

Jodie thanks you for her time-critical flight!

For active teenager Jodie, the 15th of November 2020 will be a date she won't forget.

Apr 28, 2023

Thomas's Time-Critical Flight

On September 16, 2020, life took a turn for then-16-year-old Thomas, a celebrated up-and-coming race car driver, who just two days after receiving his restricted license, crashed in his little "run-about" 1.

Feb 16, 2023

Indi's ‘Drive to Survive’ Fundraiser

For 9-year-old Indi, fundraising for her rescue helicopter was personal.

Feb 16, 2023

Paul had the life-saving flight he needed thanks to you

For Aucklander Paul, a trip south to the Edwardian Spa town of Te Aroha to visit the grave of a recently discovered relative led to a frightening and life-threatening experience.

Aug 23, 2022

Winter hiking adventure results in a winch rescue

For Morrinsville man, Murray, a love of hiking takes him to the beautiful remote spots of New Zealand, but in July the unpredictable winter weather made for a very treacherous adventure for the experienced hiker…