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.
When offered the chance to ride the length of New Zealand for a charity close to his heart (literally), Graham Thomas jumped at the chance.
“To see the country from a bike seat and raise money while doing it, I thought that was something I could get into,” Graham says.
Graham knows the Westpac Rescue Helicopter well; he’s had “two very important rides” in his lifetime.
The first was from Ashburton to Christchurch Hospital in 2013; the second two years later from Hanmer Springs to Christchurch Hospital. Both times were due to his heart acting up.
“Having two lifesaving helicopter rides gives you quite a bond to the service. My brother has had a ride in the rescue helicopter with a heart condition too.”
Graham has spent his life on his dairy and dairy support farm at Hinds. A few months ago, he moved into Tinwald, leaving his son to run the farm.
“I was dragged off to town kicking and screaming, but I still go out to the farm every day. You can’t retire to town and do nothing.”
Far from doing nothing, Graham has been training for the Rescue Warriors’ 3,000 km ride in February 2026 and fundraising for the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust.
Unfortunately, Graham’s heart isn’t along for the ride – in fact, it turns out it’s only been operating at about 30% output.
“The doctors think I’m going to need another major heart surgery, and they’ve told me pretty clearly that they can’t see me biking the length of New Zealand for a while after that.”
Graham is gutted he’s had to pull out of the ride, but his place as a Rescue Warrior remains – he’s now their chief supporter.
It’s a decision his wife Jane, three children and six grandchildren are grateful for.
“My wife used to be a district nurse and she’s seen too many old farmers doing things they shouldn’t. If I said I was going against doctor’s orders and doing the ride I’d probably need surgery for what she would do to me,” Graham jokes.
Graham will keep biking though – he can manage about 25 km, as long as he doesn’t push himself too hard. And he’ll keep supporting the Rescue Warriors’ fundraising mission.
“I know first-hand how important the rescue helicopter is for our community and I’m really proud to be doing my bit to support it.”
You can follow the Rescue Warriors on their incredible journey via their Facebook page.
Graham is proud to be raising funds for a charity close to his heart (literally)!
