Radcliffe Electrical has been part of the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust’s Business Support Crew for 20 years.
Radcliffe Electrical (South Island division) and J. A. Russell (North Island division) are together New Zealand’s largest Electrical Wholesaler, with 830 staff across 80 branches throughout New Zealand. The business was started by Jack Spooner and two friends in 1951and today remains 100% family owned.
Ngaire Smales is an Executive Director at Radcliffe Electrical and a granddaughter of business founder Jack.
“Dad taught me that if you can do something, then you should. Giving money to great causes is the best part of my job.” Ngaire Smales
As the business has spread geographically around the country, J. A. Russell and Radcliffe Electrical have extended their support of the rescue helicopter service throughout the regions and now support the service nationwide.
“We’re proud of what we give back to our communities and the rescue helicopter service is certainly our longest standing charitable connection,” Ngaire says.
There’s no doubt Radcliffe Electrical and J. A. Russell are a true Kiwi success story, built on hard work and the values of integrity, quality and service. But it’s not just the company that is connected to the rescue helicopter service. Several J. A. Russell and Radcliffe Electrical staff have been picked up by a rescue helicopter.
“You never expect to need a rescue helicopter, but things can happen and it’s reassuring to know the service is there.”
“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the commitment of our staff. We like to think they are pleased and proud of what we do for the community on their behalf,” Ngaire says.
And so, the legacy of Radcliffe Electrical and J. A. Russell Ltd continues, as does their generous support for rescue helicopter services across the country.
“Supporting the rescue helicopter service is simply the right thing to do,” Ngaire says. “It’s a connection that started in Auckland many years ago and one we’re proud to continue.”
“The life-saving work of the rescue helicopter service is now part of our company’s legacy and that’s pretty special.”
