Running 102km to Help Keep Auckland’s Rescue Helicopter in the Air

Hi everyone,

8 months ago I set myself the challenge to race one of the toughest endurance races in New Zealand, and now 9 weeks out, I’m gearing up to run the 102km Tarawera Ultramarathon on 14 February 2026.

I’m not an elite athlete or a professional fundraiser. I’m an average dad and corporate who spends most days juggling work, family, and training where I can fit it in.

I’m choosing to run well beyond what’s “average” because emergencies don’t just happen to extraordinary people; they happen to everyday New Zealanders on ordinary days that suddenly don’t go to plan.

That’s where the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust comes in. They are a charitable service that provides life-saving, 24/7 air rescue and emergency medical care when minutes matter, and they have been there for my family and many others when it mattered most.

Their crews give New Zealanders the freedom to explore our beautiful country with confidence, knowing trusted air-rescue services are ready to respond whenever someone is in need.

Each mission costs around $5,000, and the Trust relies heavily on community support. If you have the means, please consider sponsoring me; all proceeds go directly to supporting their life-saving work.

Please share this with your whānau, friends, and colleagues. Thank you for your support, it truly means a lot.

Let’s get it done, see you at the finish line!

Rich