More than $30,000 was raised for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service at the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Invitational Golf Tournament, held at Russley Golf Club, Christchurch, on Friday 20 March 2026.
$30,000+ raised in one day
The annual tournament brought together local businesses and supporters for a memorable day on the greens, raising vital funds to help keep the rescue helicopter flying for our community.
A day to remember at Russley Golf Club
The day got off to a strong start with welcome bags, ANZCO Foods burgers, and the unforgettable sight of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter landing on the 18th hole, giving golfers a close‑up look at the service they were supporting.
While the Toyota Ute generously sponsored by Miles Toyota and The Pickering Family Trust wasn’t claimed this year, the excitement around the prize added to the buzz and we’re hopeful to see a lucky golfer drive it away next time.
Congratulations to our winning teams
Congratulations to the Westpac NZ team, who took out first place in the tournament.
Kendons Business Advisors secured second place, with third place also going to a Westpac team, a strong showing all round.
Thank you to our supporters and sponsors
We extend our sincere thanks to Christchurch Casino and the Westpac volunteers, whose generosity and support helped ensure the day ran seamlessly. A special thank you as well to our talented entertainers, Izzy Stanners and Dom Edmond, who kept golfers entertained both on the course and in the clubhouse.
Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of our sponsors, participants and volunteers, and we’re incredibly grateful for every contribution.
Join us for the 2027 tournament
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Invitational Golf Tournament is an annual event, and planning is already underway for 2027. If you’d like to receive information about the next tournament, please email caroline@airrescue.co.nz
We’d love to see you join us for another fantastic day of golf while helping support this life‑saving service.
Why events like this matter
Events like the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Invitational Golf Tournament play a vital role in supporting the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Funds raised help to support crew training, purchase state-of-the-art equipment, and ensure the service is ready to respond when people in our region need urgent, life‑saving care. Thanks to events like this, and the generosity of businesses and supporters, the rescue helicopter can be there for Canterbury communities, 24/7, when every minute counts.
