A Special Visit from a Young Supporter

We were delighted to welcome Tristan and his daughter Abigail to our Ardmore base. Tristan had won a base visit and flight simulator experience through the Te Kiwi Māia charity auction, which provides mental health and wellbeing support to first responders and their families.

Travelling all the way from Christchurch, Tristan and Abby made the most of their base visit, meeting the crew and learning about the lifesaving work that happens every day. Abby took control of our flight simulator for a virtual flight and was also winched up in our new RCPT (Rear Cabin Procedural Trainer).

But what made their visit truly special was Abby’s extraordinary generosity. This remarkable young girl has been saving her pocket money to support a cause close to her heart and chose to donate $500 to our rescue helicopter service.

“Abby is also bringing along a $500 donation for your team,” Tristan told us. “Each year, she sets aside part of her pocket money to support a worthy cause; last year, it was the Christchurch City Mission, and this year, she’s chosen you. Our family trust will also be making a contribution to support the amazing work you do.”

Abby’s enthusiasm for all things emergency services and her thoughtfulness left a lasting impression on our crew. It’s inspiring to see someone so young and so passionate about helping others.

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