Taranaki Offshore Partnership named as rescue helicopter winch sponsors

Taranaki Rescue Helicopter has introduced Taranaki Offshore Partnership (TOP) to its family of sponsors to support the vital emergency response service for the New Zealand region and its communities.

TOP’s sponsorship is specifically for the rescue winch: equipment that ensures the crew can carry out rescues in situations where landing would be difficult or hazardous, such as from the water or in the alpine areas that Taranaki is known for.

Giacomo Caleffi from TOP said that its sponsorship reflects its commitment to the local community as it investigates the potential for an offshore wind farm in the South Taranaki Bight.

He said: “While we’re still only in the feasibility investigation stage, we know from our experience of developing offshore wind farms around the world how important local communities are to getting things right and unlocking the benefits.

“Our proposed offshore wind farm would not only deliver renewable energy at scale to support the decarbonization of the New Zealand economy, but also, at the local level, create skilled jobs and help to smooth the region’s transition away from emissions-intensive industries.”

The rescue winch sponsorship helps to cover the cost of annual winch training that is needed for Taranaki Rescue Helicopter crew and pilots, while also contributing to essential maintenance for the winch and cable.

Chair of the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Evan Cottam said it was thanks to the commitment and support of local sponsors that the rescue helicopter could continue to provide this life-saving service 24/7, 365 days a year.

“It’s fantastic to have Taranaki Offshore Partnership come on board as the new naming sponsor for the rescue winch. We greatly appreciate the generosity and the ongoing commitment from local businesses which help to keep our vital life-saving service available for our community,” said Cottam.