Philips Search and Rescue Trust

Coverage Area

Philips Search & Rescue Trust (PSRT) is the charity responsible for fundraising and promotion of the North Island’s largest pool of community rescue helicopters.

Available through the emergency 111 call system, our rapid response rescue helicopters bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel, and trauma-trained Intensive Care Paramedics directly to the patient. The timely assistance that rescue helicopters provide can reduce disability and improve survival. The sooner treatment begins, the greater the chance of patient recovery.

It could be you, or your loved ones that need us. Your support ensures that your rescue helicopter is available to your community.

Saving Lives

18 November 2020

April 4th started as another ordinary day in extraordinary lockdown on the Shearer family’s King Country property. Craig Shearer, a helicopter contractor, and his children Helena and Oliver were outside enjoying the weather and isolated freedom on their 3 acre block.

3 November 2020

An emergency trip to hospital in April was not the first for then six-week-old baby Harry, who at just nine days old was previously admitted to hospital for similar distressing unexplained symptoms.

3 November 2020

Nothing compares to holding your newborn in your arms for the first time – a moment of overwhelming joy. But the joy that Harry Ward’s parents experienced turned to trepidation, when, only 40 minutes later, Harry went into respiratory arrest and required resuscitation.

We Need You

Your support ensures rescue helicopters are available to your community.
Your rescue helicopter can be airborne in 10 minutes and, in a life or death situation, this speed and agility can make all the difference. The timely assistance that rescue helicopters provide can reduce disability and improve survival – the sooner treatment begins, the greater chance of patient recovery.

We are partially funded by a government contract with National Ambulance Sector Office (NASO). We rely heavily on the generosity of sponsors and the community to help fund the shortfall that allows us to be rescue ready 24/7, 365 days of the year. This crucial financial support ensures our rescue helicopter can continue to bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel, and intensive care paramedics directly to the patient.

Without your support, your rescue helicopter would not be able to remain operational on a 24/7, 365 day a year basis. This could mean a serious delay in people being rescued or transported to hospital for urgent treatment.

Support your rescue helicopter and make a lifesaving difference.

Saving Lives, Together.