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WORDS & IMAGES PROVIDED BY CANTERBURY WEST COAST AIR RESCUE

This August, the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust hosted the Back to Base Challenge, an event designed to encourage physical activity, strengthen community bonds, and raise funds for the life-saving missions of the Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and the ROA mining rescue helicopter.

The challenge invited participants from rural and urban areas alike to step up for their health and mental wellbeing while supporting a cause that directly benefits the people of their region.

Back to Base was a celebration of the resilience and vitality of our communities, particularly in rural areas where access to emergency services can be limited and the Rescue Helicopters are such a vital part of the health system. Participants were invited to walk, run, cycle, or swim, to cover a distance equivalent to some of the routes the air rescue helicopters often take during their emergency missions. The challenge allowed people of all fitness levels to get involved, setting personal goals that aligned with their abilities and lifestyle.

Regular exercise has numerous benefits, from improving cardiovascular health to reducing stress and boosting mood. The Back to Base Challenge offered a flexible way for people to engage with their health, and we watched as participants walked with their dogs, swam with their open water groups, ran through the hills, and took to the gym.

The Back to Base Challenge raised over $45,000, essential funds to support GCH Aviation, the operator of the rescue service for Canterbury and the West Coast, ensuring the Rescue Helicopter crews have the best training and equipment available to reach those in need—whether it’s a farmer injured in a remote paddock, hiker caught in rough terrain, or a whānau member suffering a medical emergency in an isolated area.

But the need is ongoing. Each year, the Rescue Helicopters in our region fly around 1,000 missions. They are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and the Trust needs to fundraise $6 million annually to support this service. We are incredibly grateful for the support of you, our rural community, who are so deeply invested in keeping this essential service running.

The Rescue Helicopters play an essential role in rural healthcare, providing emergency services to people who live or play away from the main centres. For those in rural regions, the need for this service is often more acute, as help is further away. The speed of the helicopter brings life-saving skills and speedy transport to hospital, which can be the difference between life and death.

As the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust reflects on the success of Back to Base, we’re filled with gratitude for the support shown by our communities. This event was about more than just fitness—it was about wellbeing, togetherness, and the shared commitment to look out for one another.

We are already looking forward to next year’s challenge, continuing to promote wellbeing through physical activity and supporting the critical services that help keep our communities safe.

Find our more and donate at www.airrescue.co.nz/donate