Helicopter rides without the rescue for generous Northlanders

The last time Ron Nicholas was aboard one of Northland’s Electricity Rescue Helicopters, he was sporting a broken pelvis.

That was back in 1997, shortly after the Arapohue farmer had been run over by his tractor.

The 91-year-old was back on board yesterday but this time as a guest and he reckons it was well worth the wait.

Mr Nicholas was one of 30 lucky Whangarei and Kaipara locals treated to thank you rides down Whangarei Harbour and over Mount Manaia yesterday aboard two Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST) Electricity Rescue Helicopters.

“There are plenty of farmers around who’ve had an injury like mine but can tell you the best sound I heard when I was laying on the ground was the sound of the helicopter coming out of the sky,” says Mr Nicholas.

He has remained a firm supporter of the service ever since.

Mr Nicholas and his fellow passengers departed from the Whangarei Districts Aero Club as part of an initiative to give back to those who support the annual Electricity Rescue Helicopter fundraising appeal.

People who donated $5 or more were automatically entered into an incentive prize draw for the rides.

The 2010 appeal, which is supported by Northpower and Top Energy, raised $264,360. Public donations are matched by Northpower and Top Energy with funds helping offset NEST’s operating costs – from pilot's wages to rescue crew training, insurance and interest on loans.

Northpower Marketing Manager Darren Mason says support of the life-saving venture is critically important for Northland’s community.

“With over 650 rescues annually, this service really is quite vital for an area as geographically diverse as Northland,” says Mr Mason. “People really appreciate the Northland Emergency Services Trust and it is invaluable for people to be able to experience these rescue helicopters in a non-emergency situation.”

Northpower has sponsored the service since its inception in 1988.

ENDS

© Scoop Media