The Rescue Warriors is a group of 12 blokes from mid Canterbury who are biking the length of New Zealand to raise money to support MISSION 2026, the modernisation and transformation of the rescue helicopter service across Canterbury and the West Coast.
Ahead of their ride in February 2026, we thought we’d catch up with each of the warriors to find out what’s inspired them to take on this challenge.
David is one of the originals. He completed the Rescue Warriors’ first ride in 2022 and is excited to be doing it again.
“It was such an awesome ride and so good to see the country at a slower pace,” David says.
David had already completed most of the major trails around the South Island. Riding through the North Island threw up a few challenges.
“Ninety mile beach was a highlight, but also a real grind – just relentless. However, you just take it and deal with it. It’s all part of the experience.”
David says when he finished the ride last time the first thing he said was that he’d do it all again in a heartbeat. Not surprising then, that when the Rescue Warriors started planning their 2026 ride, David was in. His family told him to go for it.
“It’s good for your body and exploring the country with mates is great for your mind.”
David says it’s also special to be supporting such a great cause.
“Everybody knows somebody who has been picked up by the rescue helicopter. It’s such a relevant cause.”
And David’s hoping that support for the rescue helicopters will continue after the ride is over.
“There’s a far greater awareness now of the impact the rescue helicopter has on our community.
“My hope is that the individuals and businesses who have donated to the Rescue Warriors will continue supporting the rescue helicopter service into the future.”
When he’s not biking or volunteering for the Hinds & Districts Lions Club, David enjoys time with his wife Ruth on their arable and mixed stock farm just out of Hinds. His two sons farm with him (although David says his sons do most of the work these days) and his daughter farms nearby.
David says it’s lovely to have his children and seven grandchildren close.
“My family are really supportive of the Rescue Warriors, what we’re doing and the great cause we’re doing it for. We see the rescue helicopter fly overhead quite regularly and, while fortunately we haven’t needed it, it’s great to know it’s there.”
You can follow the Rescue Warriors on their incredible journey via their Facebook page.
David hopes that the businesses and organisations that have supported the Rescue Warriors will continue to support the rescue helicopter service into the future.
