A record $1.98 million was raised during this year’s Westpac Chopper Appeal to help New Zealand’s national network of rescue helicopters continue their potentially lifesaving work.

The highest total in the annual appeal’s history includes $136,260 raised in the Bay of Plenty, a media statement said.

Westpac NZ has published a thank you video to all the New Zealanders who donated to this year’s appeal.

Westpac NZ Tauranga Banking Adviser Phoebe Scott helped raise funds for the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter at the Whangamatā Beach Hop.

Westpac NZ product, sustainability and marketing managing director Sarah Hearn said she was in awe of how much people contributed to support the chopper’s services in their area.

Chopper Bike Ride supporters cheer riders on.

“We’re so grateful to every person who contributed in any way, from donating to our people shaking buckets, to the keen cyclists who rode 230k from Queenstown to Invercargill for the Westpac Chopper Bike Ride, those who took part in a quiz night, auction, bake sale, walking challenge; or contributed in any other way, including eating lamingtons.

“Our research showed that one in four people have either needed a rescue chopper themselves, or know someone who has, and the incredible generosity to achieve this record highlights just how close to people’s hearts the choppers are,” Hearn said in the statement.

“Because all funds go back to the region where they were raised, every dollar counts and helps meet the rising costs of training, equipment and supplies for the 15 nationwide rescue helicopter trusts.

“We are incredibly proud that our support of the rescue helicopters goes back 44 years and is a big part of who we are. Our staff love working in their communities to raise funds that help keep them, their friends and their loved ones safe.”

This year Westpac Chopper Appeal Month was brought to life by the Together We Make the Chopper campaign, which featured a typical bake sale and lamington-inspired film, as well as a life-sized rescue helicopter built of real people.

“The work also captured New Zealanders’ imaginations, with many convinced the helicopter had been created using AI.

“We loved sharing a behind-the-scenes film to show how it was really made, and seeing people delight in the craftsmanship behind it became one of the highlights of the Appeal,” Hearn said.

“The campaign reminds us that while one action might feel small, together they add up to something powerful. It’s incredible how communities show up for each other in service of something much bigger.”

As well as contributing through its sponsorship arrangement, Westpac funded the marketing and administration costs of the Chopper Appeal and distributed all funds raised back to donors’ local rescue helicopter trust.

Donations to Chopper Appeal are accepted year-round.