AUCKLAND, Today: The roar of a rescue chopper will take over ad breaks this May, as Westpac partners with Toyota, Lotto NZ, Spark, Chorus, Z Energy and Turners for Chopper Appeal Month.
Each brand’s ad will feature the helicopter’s powerful audio, symbolising help on the way. In a NZ-first, even a live Lotto draw will cut to the sound to prompt donations.
Created by Saatchi & Saatchi and rolled out by Spark Foundry, the campaign goes beyond TV – hitting cinemas, digital, outdoor and social, to get the message across loud and clear.
In cinemas, the chopper kicks in just after the lights go down. In Newmarket, train commuters will hear it hourly, and bus shelters will blast it when someone walks past.
Social channels will also play a big part, with local influencers helping drive support for this lifesaving service by encouraging donations throughout May.
“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,” Ms Williams says.
“For Lotto NZ, this partnership is about more than advertising – it’s about connection, community, and doing what we can to support a cause that so many people, as well as their friends and whānau may need at some point in life.” – Miss Duff.
“We’re proud to support the Westpac Chopper Appeal this year and be part of a campaign that brings such a meaningful sound into homes across the country,” says Genna Duff, Head of Brand at Lotto NZ.
“We’re excited to include the chopper sound during one of our live draws – an important reminder of this indispensable service.”
“For Lotto NZ, this partnership is about more than advertising – it’s about connection, community, and doing what we can to support a cause that so many people, as well as their friends and whānau may need at some point in life,” adds Miss Duff.
More than 9,200 missions were flown in 2024 by New Zealand’s rescue helicopters – and that number keeps rising. Fundraising support is crucial to keep them flying.
Last year, the Chopper Appeal raised a record $1.44 million for rescue services across the country. Westpac is aiming even higher in 2025.
Westpac CEO Catherine McGrath and senior leaders will be shaking buckets around the country on Thursday 8 May as part of the annual Chopper Street Appeal.
Other activities include quiz nights, auctions, a gala ball, and the massive 230km Chopper Bike Ride from Queenstown to Invercargill.
- To donate or find out more, visit chopperappeal.co.nz
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