NVG Appeal
LIGHT UP THE SKY FOR OUR PILOTS!
As a Rescue Helicopter Pilot, my ability to respond quickly and safely in emergency situations
relies heavily on advanced technology. One of the most critical tools we use is our Night
Vision Goggles (NVGs). Quite simply, they can mean the difference between being able to
save a life and having to decline a mission altogether.
Unfortunately, the NVGs we currently use are coming to the end of their life so we need to
transition to new gear. Aviation technology has advanced significantly, and with the arrival of
our new helicopter in just a few months, it is essential that our night vision equipment is
upgraded to ensure compatibility with this machine. At present, we are prioritising the upgrade
of the pilots’ NVGs, with plans to replace the remaining gear for the rest of our crew in the future.
One pair of the EV3 Night Vision Goggles costs $32,700.
The EV3 Night Vision Goggles represent a major step forward in aviation safety. They utilise
advanced white phosphor image intensifier technology, delivering clearer, sharper, and
higher-contrast imagery. Designed with fewer mechanical components and reduced maintenance
requirements, they offer greater long- term reliability. For a rescue service that must be ready to
launch at a moment’s notice, dependable equipment is not optional - it is truly essential.
In addition, their lightweight design significantly reduces neck and eye strain, helping to minimise
fatigue during long- duration missions. This enables our crews to operate safely and effectively for
longer periods, without compromising focus or performance. This is a vital advantage when every
second truly counts.
Many of the missions we undertake occur at night or in low-light conditions, when hazards are harder
to detect and the margin for error is at its smallest. In these moments, night vision technology is not
a luxury; it is a life-saving necessity.
One mission I will never forget occurred several years ago when we were called out around 9:00 pm
to search the coastline off Napier after two kayakers failed to return from an afternoon trip. Using our
NVGs, we began a systematic search of the area where they had last been fishing. After approximately
15 minutes scouring the water, we located one of the kayakers. Being completely dark that far offshore,
there is no doubt in my mind that without night vision technology, that kayaker would not have been seen.
We immediately radioed the nearby Coastguard and hovered overhead to guide them to the kayaker so
they could be safely retrieved from the water. Thankfully, the second kayaker had managed to make their
way to shore, and we were able to return to base. On our way back, we were able to see some incredible sea
mammals deep in the ocean through the NVGs. Thankfully both patients were unharmed, although it was
undoubtedly an experience they will never forget.
The cost of these new NVGs is additional to the standard operating costs we have to raise every year to
keep our service available, so we are asking you, as one of our incredible donors, if you could please donate
today to help us secure this important piece of equipment. Enabling this purchase helps our crew to continue
saving lives, like these kayakers and countless others.
