Search & Rescue Services is the emergency air ambulance helicopter service provider for central New Zealand
Our mahi is powered by two pillars of support: significant Government investment and contributions from our dedicated regional Trust partners. Guided by our shared purpose, we work together to provide lifesaving care across the rohe, so no emergency goes unanswered.
A national network of rescue experts
Our team comprises more than 150 highly experienced and professionally qualified pilots, critical care paramedics, and air crew officers who work together to deliver life-saving rescue and critical care to the sick and injured across central New Zealand. We operate out of eight bases across Te-Ika-a-Māui.
Leadership
Search & Rescue Services is led by a dedicated team of experienced professionals who bring extensive expertise in clinical, aviation, rescue and business management.
Community focused, professionally operated
In 2018, five regional charitable Trusts came together with a shared goal: to make sure their communities had access to reliable, high-quality air rescue services. They established Search & Rescue Services as an independent, not-for-profit operator and remain its owners today. These Trusts – Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust, Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust, Life Flight Trust, Philips Search & Rescue Trust, and Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust – continue to provide vital community-level support and connection.
While Search & Rescue Services is responsible for delivering the service – from flight operations to clinical care – our regional Trust partners focus on enabling it. Through their local fundraising, sponsorships, and advocacy, they help ensure Search & Rescue Services can continue to respond 24/7, wherever and whenever we’re needed.
It’s a model that keeps the rescue helicopters grounded in local values, and driven by clinical and aviation excellence. Guided by our shared purpose, we work together to provide lifesaving care across the rohe (region), so no emergency goes unanswered.
The Board
Our organisation is guided by a Board of eight skilled directors with substantial experience across aviation, clinical care and the rescue sector in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a strong focus on the Central Region of Te Ika-a-Māui. Their leadership ensures robust governance and strategic direction that supports our mission and values. Together, they bring insight, accountability, and a deep understanding of the communities we serve.
Involved in EMS sector since 2015, professional director
Former airline CEO, chartered accountant, Life Flight Trust deputy chair (March 2019), aviator
Experienced former emergency physician, clinical director and senior health director, both here and overseas
Experienced director specialising in aviation and tourism, former Qantas and Air NZ executive
Ngāti Porou and Rongowhakaata,
former Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), Air NZ 787 pilot, Māori consultant
Former senior Health NZ executive, professional director
Involved in Rescue Helicopter and commercial aviation since 1987, former CEO of SRSL from 2009 to 2024, chartered accountant, specialising in aviation, CEO and trustee of PSRT
Former Chair of Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust and experienced Company Director
Interested in joining our team?
We’re always on the look out for great people interested in doing great things. If you are passionate about making a difference and working with amazing people, please explore our open positions and apply today.
