As New Zealand’s iconic Huka Lodge at Taupō readies to reopen on March 1, 2025, following a significant refurbishment by owners Baillie Lodges, the company announce it has just raised $45,000 for Taupō’s Greenlea Rescue Helicopter as part of its Spirit of Mateship program.

The team at the Greenlea Foundation Trust has agreed to match all donations in its campaign to bring the $18million state-of-the-art Airbus H145, twin-engine rescue helicopter to the region in 2025, bringing the total funds raised to $90,000.

The Baillie Lodges Spirit of Mateship program is an ongoing initiative for the collection of luxury lodges to raise funds for nominated community, health and conservation organisations in each of the lodge’s locations.

In December, Baillie Lodges created a Christmas Raffle, with the prize a three-night stay for two at the new-look Huka Lodge, plus all the usual generous inclusions and return flights from Australia, donated by Air New Zealand.

As part of the Spirit of Mateship program, Baillie Lodges also holds a bi-annual auction of three-night stays at each lodge, with all proceeds from the winning bids pooled and divided amongst the chosen community organisations. In 2024, the auction program raised more than $140,000 which was donated directly to the beneficiaries.

Baillie Lodges Chief Operating Officer, Craig Bradbery, said the Spirit of Mateship Christmas Raffle had raised a larger-than-expected amount of funds, signalling tremendous support for the much-loved bright green rescue helicopter as well as hopes to win a three-night stay at the soon-to-reopen Huka Lodge.

“We were thrilled to see entries for the Christmas Raffle really take off, and very much appreciate the loyal support of our Baillie Lodges guests and friends,” Mr Bradbery said.

“We can’t wait to reveal a refreshed Huka Lodge in March next year, where her century-old heritage has been preserved whilst adding some considered enhancement and making the most of the beautiful Taupō region and rolling Waikato River, ready to welcome a next generation of traveller.”

Greenlea Rescue Helicopter Community Fundraiser Coordinator Kelly Buchan the organisation was honoured to have been chosen by Huka Lodge in conjunction with Baillie Lodges to be the recipient of the Spirit of Mateship initiative.

“The picturesque region of Central Plateau and the Lakes Region in which the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter serves is a top destination for national and international travellers, and we are proud to provide this essential air rescue service 24/7, 365 days a year, on a no-fault basis, free to both the community and those who visit,” Ms Buchan said.

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