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 30 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 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 stand 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 30 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 results. Kathryn leads the strategy and implementation of individual and gift in will 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 over 25 years, Sean has worked with fixed-wing air ambulance and regional rescue helicopter services across New Zealand, primarily with the Westpac Rescue Helicopters. For the past nine years, he has worked exclusively for the Canterbury and West Coast Rescue Helicopters. He enjoys working directly with new and existing business and individual supporters, all of whom play a vital role in helping keep the helicopters in the air for all of us.

“The recent upgrades, including the three H145 helicopters, mark a significant step forward for the service. The support we receive is more important than ever, helping us to meet current and future demand and provide the very best care for patients. The relationships with our supporters are a big part of what makes this role so rewarding and being able to thank them personally means a great deal.”

Clare is a senior marketing and communications professional with over 20 years’ experience across the not-for-profit and education sectors. She 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 life-saving work. It’s a privilege to be able to work alongside them and, in my own small way, support this incredible service.”

With more than two decades of national and regional fundraising, events and project management experience, Caroline brings a wealth of expertise, ideas, and enthusiasm to the team. She loves connecting with our business partners and community members who support the service.

“I’m inspired every day by the incredible crew members who work tirelessly to save lives and ensure the very best outcomes for patients across our region. Their compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to caring for others is truly remarkable.”

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 our executive assistant and looks after the administration of 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 analysing data, using it to support actionable insights that drive accuracy and operational excellence.

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