For Keith Whitfield, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service was more than just a community resource. It represented the kind of help that can make all the difference when lives are on the line.
An aviation enthusiast and active member of a local flying club, Keith was piloting an aircraft near Broken River on 3 August 1963 when it crashed.
His friends have often shared stories about the accident and Keith’s remarkable survival. One recalls Keith saying he was airlifted from the crash site by helicopter. Another remembers him talking about the road ambulance crew who believed he would not survive his injuries.
Keith Whitfield
But Keith proved them wrong.
He spent eight months recovering in hospital and, although he never flew again, he went on to live a full and active life.
Whether it was this experience that inspired his support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is unknown. What is clear is that Keith felt a deep connection and the role it plays in saving lives. That connection was so important to him that he chose to leave a gift in his Will to the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust.
Keith passed away on 31 March 2025 at the age of 94.
A graduate of Canterbury Agricultural College, where he completed a Diploma in Agriculture, Keith had a lifelong passion for the wool industry and wool classing. His work took him throughout New Zealand and Australia.
Recently, Keith’s friends and the executors of his estate visited the GCH Aviation Air Rescue Base to see the service his legacy will help support for years to come.
Gordon, Hans and Brian shared fond memories of Keith, describing him as a real character with a reputation for being frugal, and proudly so.
During their visit, they met members of the rescue helicopter crew and learnt more about the specialist clinical equipment, advanced training and constant readiness required to respond whenever people need help.
Thanks to the generosity of supporters like Keith, the crew can continue to provide lifesaving care across Canterbury and the West Coast.
Gordon says they left the base with a real sense of awe at the incredible work of the rescue helicopter crew.
“It truly was a ‘wow’ experience. Seeing the professionalism, dedication and compassion of everyone involved gave us an even greater appreciation of the lifesaving service you provide to our community.
“Knowing that Keith’s legacy will help save lives for many years to come means a great deal to us.”
Today, Keith’s gift will help ensure the rescue helicopter crew remains ready to respond when every second counts, creating a legacy that will continue saving lives long into the future.
