“Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime”
The Auckland based Westpac Rescue Helicopter is the only rescue helicopter service in New Zealand that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

2009 is the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Services’ 39th year in operation. This is a milestone for the organisation, which started the world's first ever-civilian rescue helicopter service back in 1970.

Over the past 39 years, the service has performed more than 12,000 rescues and is internationally recognised for its pioneering work in saving lives.

History
The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust's origins date back to the establishment of the Rescue Helicopter Service in 1970. That summer, the Auckland Life Saving Association launched a world first in ocean rescue with the provision of the Hiller 12E helicopter. This aircraft was used specifically for the saving of lives from the surf on Auckland's west coast beaches.

In 1990 a Charitable Trust was formed with Trustees selected from the community and business sectors of the greater Auckland region. The primary aim of the Trust is to provide and develop a highly efficient aero medical service for the benefit of the community at large.

International Award
This outstanding achievement was recognised by the world "Association of Aeromedical Services" in 2000 when the Trust was presented with an award for 10,000 accident free missions.