The sound of a rescue helicopter is disrupting TV commercials for trusted New Zealand brands such as Toyota, Lotto NZ, Spark, Chorus, Z Energy, and Turners. The campaign idea by Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand supports Chopper Appeal Month’s donation drive through May. The welcoming sound of the Westpac rescue helicopter will even be heard during a live Lotto draw.

The campaign extends beyond TV through various media partnerships brokered by Spark Foundry New Zealand. In cinema, the sound of the chopper will flood theatres just after the lights go down. In OOH, commuters waiting for a bus will trigger the sound of a chopper in street furniture take overs. In Newmarket, the sound of a chopper will fill the train station every hour complementing the large digital OOH screen. The initiative is also being amplified on social media, with a cast of well-known Kiwi influencers lending their voices to highlight the importance of this lifesaving service and inspire donations.

In 2024, 9,289 potentially lifesaving missions were flown by the national network of rescue helicopters and the need for fundraising support is growing every year.

Westpac NZ chief marketing officer, Sarah Williams, stated, “By having so many brands working in unison, we are hoping to reach even more Kiwis, bringing the idea ‘There’s no greater sound when you need it’ to life through every means possible. The sound of the chopper will be loud and proud.”

Westpac CEO, Catherine McGrath, and other senior leaders will also join Westpac teams in shaking a bucket on street corners around the country on the annual Chopper Street Appeal Day on Thursday May 8. Other activities throughout the month include quiz nights, auctions, a gala ball, and the famous 230km Chopper Bike Ride from Queenstown to Invercargill.