Westpac Chopper Appeal

Westpac Chopper Bike Ride 2026

$150,000 goal
8 May 2026

The Chopper Bike Ride is back for its 15th year – and we need your support to make it the biggest one yet.

Southland

On Friday 8 May, riders from across Aotearoa will tackle the legendary 235km ride from Queenstown to Invercargill to raise funds for the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust to support the vital Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service – a lifeline for people across some of our most remote regions.

This year, they’re joined by Paddy Gower, Brook MacDonald, and Sarah Cowley Ross, all stepping up to help keep this vital service flying.

Your donation goes directly to the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust to support the vital Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service, funding missions that save lives every week – from farming accidents and medical emergencies to lost trampers and back‑country rescues.

Every dollar makes a difference.

Let’s make 2026 unforgettable – for the riders, for the region, and for the chopper! 🚁

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This campaign started on 28 Jan 2026 and ends on 30 Jun 2026.
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