10/08/2025
At a time when many would be putting their feet up, Burlington resident Doug Archbold is lacing up his walking shoes. Doug has signed up for the Back to Base challenge, aiming to walk 49 kilometres this August to raise funds for the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust — a cause that has deeply personal meaning for him.
Doug’s connection to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter goes back 28 years. In 1997, while working on his Cheviot farm, Doug suffered a broken neck in a quad bike accident. “I can still remember the sound of the chopper,” he says. The rescue helicopter crew arrived quickly, managing his pain and flying him to hospital for urgent surgery. Years later, Doug’s life was saved again — this time after a cardiac arrest in 2011. The paramedic who resuscitated him was none other than his former neighbour, now a Critical Care Paramedic on the helicopter crew.
These life-altering experiences, combined with his years of voluntary work supporting rural mental health, have only deepened Doug’s commitment to the service. Now, he’s turning his gratitude into action. Doug originally set his fundraising target at $500 — but after overwhelming support, he’s now aiming for $5,000. He’s encouraging others to take part in the challenge too, saying: “It’s a great way to support a life-saving service and improve your own wellbeing along the way.”
It’s especially fitting that the Westpac Chopper Appeal is Qestral’s chosen charity for 2025, making Doug’s efforts all the more meaningful across our communities.
To follow Doug’s journey or donate, visit his fundraising page:
www.backtobase.co.nz/doug-archbold
