People have a chance to meet the crew of the live saving TECT Rescue Helicopter at an open day this weekend.

The annual Open Day is from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, February 7, at the Ian Pain Memorial Hangar, behind Tauranga Hospital.

For a gold coin donation, people can view the helicopter up close and personal and see other emergency service teams.

'The a family-friendly event is suitable for all ages, with live demonstrations from Fire and Emergency New Zealand happening on the hour, local food trucks, and interactive activities,” says a spokesperson for the rescue helicopter.

'There will be raffles running throughout the day and a bidding station for the silent auctions. With prizes from local businesses like Mount Surf Academy, Adrenaline Forest, Waimarino Adventure Park, Paint Vine, Brew Bus.

'There will be merchandise stand where people can purchase a die-cast replica rescue helicopter, Westpac helicopter money box, or a TECT Rescue Helicopter lanyard with Eftpos and cash sales available.”

The TECT Rescue Helicopter operates a 24 hours a day 365 days a year and services the Bay of Plenty.

It provides a fully-fledged air emergency medical service with full-time experienced intensive care paramedics, crewman and pilots.

It was founded in 2000 and has touched the lives of more than a thousand patients.