The region’s aeromedical and rescue capabilities are on the up with the arrival of an eight-figure shiny beast.
Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust (NMRHT) celebrated its new H145 rescue helicopter at Airport House on Tuesday with the supporters, donors, volunteers, crew members, partner agencies and sponsors who helped propel the mission.
Replacing its BK117 which has been in service since 2012 and will possibly retire at the end of June, the new chopper offers enhanced safety systems, advanced avionics, greater operational capability and improved patient care space.
These upgrades will support crews responding across some of Aotearoa’s most challenging terrain.
The new chopper was one of four that were purchased and commissioned by GCH Aviation and Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust from Switzerland, and NMRHT general manager Paula Muddle says it's a “defining moment” for its service to people in their most critical moments.
“This is far more than the arrival of a new helicopter, it represents the next chapter of a rescue service that has been built by our community, for our community, over the past 35 years,” she says.
“I was very fortunate to fly up [in it] from Christchurch. The amount of technology that they can fit in that space absolutely blew me away.
“I've heard the crew talk about how it’s an absolute game changer, and what they can do on that helicopter compared to what they could do on the BK117. The confidence they have with that equipment is second to none.”
Another first for the aircraft is the addition of the Westpac “W”, marking the service’s new major sponsor.
Westpac area manager Tony Pra said the arrival of the H145 was an “exciting milestone”, while head of sponsorship Todd Johnstone said the bank was “incredibly proud” to partner with the service.
The arrival also coincides with the Trust’s “Fund the Gap” campaign, which aims to cover the significant shortfall required for commissioning the helicopter.
Special acknowledgement was given to the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust for its support and leadership throughout the commissioning process.
“The commissioning of a new rescue helicopter is an enormous undertaking, and we sincerely thank our colleagues at the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust for their support, expertise and collaboration,” Muddle said.
“We’re about halfway through the $1.2 million needed for commissioning.”
The Trust also paid tribute to founding trustee Robert Williams for his dedication and vision, as well as GCH Aviation, which has provided services to the region for three decades.
