Life Flight

A next-generation rescue helicopter enters service today, marking a major step forward for emergency care, and a powerful symbol of community support across the lower North and upper South Island.

Published 22nd September 2025

The Airbus H145 Westpac Rescue Helicopter is now operational from Life Flight’s Wellington base, ready to respond to emergencies across lower North and Upper South Islands. Equipped with advanced technology and state-of-the-art safety features, the new aircraft boosts reliability, enhances patient care in remote or challenging conditions, and ultimately helps save more lives. 

“Our Emergency Air Ambulance Helicopter Service plays a critical role in enabling time-sensitive care for people in urgent need,” Associate Health Minister Casey Costello says. “The new H145 will provide safer and more reliable care to patients when time matters most. It reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring the right care is available at the right time, no matter where people live.” 

The H145 replaces Life Flight’s much-loved but ageing BK117, which served the Greater Wellington region and beyond for more than 20 years. It is one of nine new or near-new aircraft being introduced nationwide, with the purchases jointly funded by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). 

What makes the service truly unique, however, is the deep public connection and sense of community behind it. Operating under a mixed-funding model, the Westpac Chopper service is sustained through government support, sponsorship, grants and thousands of community donations – from school sausage sizzles to bequests. 

“This isn’t just a helicopter – the Westpac Chopper service is part of the community,” says Life Flight Chief Executive Mark Johnston. “From gifts left in wills to the incredible support of sponsors like Westpac, it’s the community that keeps this helicopter flying, day in and day out.” 

The new aircraft offers a quieter ride, a larger cabin, and increased safety – especially important during night missions and in rugged terrain. The crew is expected to carry out around 400 emergency missions each year, from life-threatening injuries and cardiac arrests to premature births and search and rescue operations. 

“It’s a game changer for patients and crews,” says Johnston. “In those moments when every second counts, this aircraft allows our team to work faster, smarter, and safer.” 

Seven-year-old Jason is one of 43,000 people Life Flight has helped since its first mission 50 years ago. After a severe allergic reaction in Kāpiti left him unresponsive and fighting for his life, the Westpac Chopper was in the air within minutes. 

“It was incredible watching all these people come together to save my son – and completely overwhelming,” says Jason’s mum, Lanita. Jason spent 24 hours in an induced coma. Today, he’s thriving. 

As a not-for-profit, Life Flight relies on the generosity of donors, funders, and sponsors to help keep the service running. No patient is ever charged. 

“Thousands of New Zealanders work together to fund essential costs – equipment, training, fuel and more. We’re proud to put it to work on behalf of the community,” says Johnston. 

The new Westpac Chopper is now in service, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Life Flight’s Westpac Chopper is part a unified emergency air ambulance network delivering 24/7 coverage across central New Zealand. Operated by Search & Rescue Services Ltd., Life Flight works alongside partner Trusts based in Palmerston North, Hamilton, Taupō, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Tauranga and Taranaki.   

ENDS

For further media enquiries, images, and to request an interview please contact:

Life Flight Trust
Tessa Haigh
Sr Marketing and Communications Manager
E: tessa@lifeflight.org.nz
T: 027 419 5282