The inaugural Run the Runway event raised more than $24,000 for the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter service.

A statement from the service said 590 people took part in the sold-out event at Tauranga Airport on October 31.

Before the 5km run, guests gathered at the “Funway”, which featured food and drink stalls, games, entertainment and health and sport products.

After the final aircraft departed, participants headed for the starting line.

Alicia Albert-Ririnui, a spouse of a past rescue helicopter patient, said they had to wait for the helicopter to land before starting the run, the statement said.

“Boy, did I get emotional watching the helicopter fly in.”

The Run the Runway event at Tauranga Airport. Photo / Aerocool Rescue Helicopter

Three off-duty Aerocool Rescue Helicopter crew members also joined in.

Liam Brettkelly, pilot and base manager for the service, said; “It was great to be out there on the runway with everyone”.

“We see a lot of people on their worst days, so getting to spend the evening alongside an incredible community supporting the work we do meant a lot.”

The top runner, Cooper, crossed the finish line at 17 minutes 27 seconds, closely followed by top female runner Jess in 20 minutes 58 seconds.

Finishers received a goodie bag, an exclusive medal, and the opportunity for a commemorative photograph.

The statement said the money raised would go “directly towards the chopper and crew that provide life-saving care to the community 24/7″ and thanked everyone who made the event possible.

The helicopter service relied on community support to continue saving lives in the Coastal Bay of Plenty region, completing 619 missions in 2025.

The statement said each mission costs about $10,000, meaning community support was crucial.

People were encouraged to consider giving the gift of a donation this Christmas.