Anton Drazevic appointed CEO of Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust
The leadership change comes as the New Zealand organization prepares to complete a major fleet modernization program and expand air medical capabilities
The Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust and the New Zealand Flying Doctor Trust have appointed Anton Drazevic as Chief Executive Officer.
Drazevic brings more than two decades of leadership experience in operations, community organizations, and executive management.
He returned to Christchurch to take up the role after serving as Chief Executive of the Nelson Environment Centre. He succeeds the leadership of the two organizations at a time of significant investment in New Zealand’s air rescue and fixed-wing air ambulance services.
At the end of last year, the Canterbury and West Coast Air Rescue Trust unveiled the first of a batch of three Airbus H145s. The appointment comes as the Trust prepares to introduce the fourth and final H145 in its fleet renewal program.
Alongside the aircraft acquisition, the trust has invested in crew equipment, training, and operational infrastructure to support rescue helicopter services across Canterbury, the West Coast, and Nelson.
The New Zealand Flying Doctor Service, which operates under the Trust, transported 1,402 patients on interhospital air ambulance missions in 2025, providing fixed-wing critical care transfers throughout New Zealand.
Drazevic said his connection with the organization began in 2010, when a family member was rescued following a helicopter accident. “That experience has stayed with me, and it’s a big part of why I’m so energized to lead the Trusts today,” he commented.
He added that he had been struck by the commitment of the organization’s crews and support staff during his first days in the role: “Whether they’re in the helicopter, on the fixed-wing aircraft, or behind the scenes, their commitment to every patient is extraordinary.”
Murray Willocks, Chairman of the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust, said: “Anton brings a deep understanding of mission-driven organizations and the importance of placing community and patient wellbeing at the center of every decision.”
The Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust supports emergency helicopter operations across New Zealand’s South Island, while the New Zealand Flying Doctor Service provides around-the-clock interhospital patient transfers using fixed-wing aircraft.
Image courtesy of Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust.