17/08/2026
50,000 Missions and Counting
This year marks an incredible milestone for GCH Aviation and the lifesaving services we proudly operate across the upper South Island – more than 50,000 air rescue and aeromedical missions have been flown since the launch of our rescue helicopter service in 1985.
What began as a single rescue helicopter serving Canterbury has grown to include the Canterbury & West Coast Rescue Helicopters, Nelson Marlborough Air Rescue and the NZ Flying Doctor Service, providing critical care and emergency transport to thousands of people when they needed it most.
Every mission represents a person, a family and a community impacted by the dedication of our pilots, air crew officers, engineers, medical teams, support staff, partners, funders and supporters. Together, they have helped save countless lives over four decades.
To everyone who has supported these services over the past 40 years – thank you. This milestone belongs to all of us.
John Currie is pictured with Allan Ruck, one of the first rescues. Allan crashed his aircraft into Forest Field, hit turbulence and fliped the aircraft. Allan was told if he hadn't been rescued by the chopper he would not have made it! He spent 3 months in hospital.
