Team

Anton is a purpose-driven leader who understands the power of community and the partnerships that keep the air rescue service in the air. He brings more than 20 years’ experience in executive leadership, operations, and community impact both in New Zealand and overseas.

“People believe in this mission, and so do I. I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and work alongside our team, our communities, and the crew to continue delivering world-class care to the communities we serve.”

Rachael has worked for the Rescue Helicopter Trust for over 25 years. She has covered multiple roles during her tenure with the trust, starting out providing Telemarketing admin support and has overseen roles as General Manager and most recently Funding & Finance Manager – being accountable for all of the Trust’s community fundraising and finance requirements.

“I enjoy being part of an incredible team, working hard to provide a world-class Rescue Helicopter and Air Ambulance service for the Canterbury and West Coast communities.”

Experiences that stands out for Rachael were the 2011 and 2016 earthquakes. It was a particularly challenging time for the rescue crews, as well as the wider GCH Aviation and Rescue Helicopter Trust team.

“In order to manage the huge workload the team really had to pull together to support each other, the camaraderie was incredible.”

Kathryn is a highly experienced fundraiser with over 25 years in income generation, strategy and donor-centric communications. Her involvement with world-leading hospitals, universities, and charities both in the UK and NZ means that she is experienced at building authentic and collaborative partnerships in order to gain positive fiscal results. Kathryn will be leading the strategy and implementation of individual, corporate and bequest programmes in order to deliver sustainable income to keep the service running.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside our supporters to see this vital service grow and thrive, safe in the knowledge that every dollar raised is saving somebody’s life.”

For the past 20 years, Sean has worked with both fixed wing air ambulance and regional rescue helicopters across the country. His primary role throughout this time has been with the Westpac Rescue Helicopters. He continues to enjoy working directly with both new and existing business supporters, all of whom play a vital role in helping keep the choppers in the air for all of us.

“This support directly helps us provide patients with the best possible outcome. I love nothing more than talking directly to our business supporters, catching up with them each year, and of course, being able to thank them on behalf of the crew and the patients.”

We feel blessed to have such an experienced marketing guru on the team. Clare spent over 15 years at the University of Canterbury working across a wide variety of departments. Clare is focussed on increasing the profile of the Rescue Helicopter Service and is the head of storytelling and engagement.

“I love working at the Trust as there are never two days the same and there is so much to do. We have so many amazing stories to tell about our patients and crew, which is very satisfying”.

Pip brings to the team more than 20 years of communications expertise across the business and charity sector. With a strong sense of community, Pip is a storyteller at heart and is focussed on connecting with patients, crew and families to tell their stories and share our impact.

“I am in awe of the expertise and knowledge of the pilots and crew and the humility with which they go about their lifesaving work. It’s a privilege to be able to work alongside them and, in my own small way, support this incredible service.”

With almost two decades of national and regional fundraising and events to her name, Caroline brings a wealth of experience and enthusium to the team. She loves hosting amazing and meaningful events, and seeing people connect to make a difference within their community, and hopes to meet you at one, soon.

“I’m inspired by our amazing crew, heroes without capes, that are literally saving lives day-after-day and ensuring the best patient outcomes for all people within our region.”

Ann-Marie arrived at the Trust after spending 15 years working at the NZ head office of Virgin Australia as PA and Office Support. Ann-Marie is the executive assistant and look after the administration tas Trustee meetings as well as a variety of other support tasks. She is super organised and very talented with a needle and thread!

“Being able to work on base, amongst the amazing air rescue team provides motivation every day!”

Desiree joined the team after ten rewarding years with Birthright Canterbury Trust, where she developed a strong foundation in financial administration within the not-for-profit sector.

“I feel privileged to support an organisation whose dedication to service genuinely inspires me every day.”

Tash brings valuable experience in CRM, database systems, and accounting, with a strong focus on detail and data accuracy. She is proficient in system configuration and team training, working to improve tools that support smooth operations. Tash enjoys analyzing data and addressing issues to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

“Hearing the helicopters and planes each day is a powerful reminder of the incredible service we’re part of.”