PGG Wrightson (PGW) has been a proud supporter of Land Search and Rescue since 2021. It is a vital service that helps everyone in New Zealand, and we are pleased to announce that we are renewing our sponsorship for another year.  

PGW works with a diverse range of businesses within the rural sector, so we know the importance of planning when visiting remote areas of New Zealand. Our teams across the motu are often meeting clients in isolated areas, and common activities of staff outside of work include tramping, hunting and fishing—getting amongst the natural beauty of Aotearoa. We take preparedness and safety seriously, and strongly support building search and rescue skills in the regions we live, work and explore.  

Carl McOnie, CEO of Land Search and Rescue said they are thrilled to continue the partnership between Land Search and Rescue and PGG Wrightson.  He said, "PGW’s unwavering support has been crucial in helping us maintain a high level of readiness and response. Together, we have made a tangible difference in the lives of many New Zealanders, and we look forward to achieving even more in the future." 

"We are delighted to renew our support of Land Search and Rescue for another term”, said Stephen Guerin, CEO of PGG Wrightson. "As a nationwide organisation in the agricultural sector, we understand the importance of preparedness and safety, especially with staff and clients working in remote areas in rural New Zealand. That makes this partnership particularly important to us, supporting Land Search and Rescue on their impactful mission; building community resilience and helping everyone to get home safely.” 

Alongside our sponsorship of Land Search and Rescue, we also aim to ensure staff who volunteer for the organisation can attend call outs. One of our Technical Horticultural Representatives, Aaron Thompson is a Land Search and Rescue volunteer in Marlborough, and has been involved for about 8 years.  

He said “I’m really pleased that PGW is supporting Land Search and Rescue on a National level, as there are many synergies between the two organisations, especially the rural aspect. PGW has always been supportive towards my involvement with Land Search and Rescue. The timings of call outs can be a bit tricky since I’m in a sales role—it’s just a case of keeping up good comms with my manager Nick and letting him know what’s going on. Sometimes I just can’t go on a call out due to work timings and other commitments, but that’s fine as I know there are awesome people in our local group good to go.” 

Aaron is one of over 3,300 Land Search and Rescue volunteers, operating in challenging environments including forests and mountains, alongside urban areas supporting the needs of cognitively divergent people. In the last 12 months, over 150,000 hours were invested by volunteers with 495 search and rescue operations, saving the lives of 41 people and bringing a further 428 people home to their families.  Unfortunately, of the 428 people reunited with their loved ones, 41 tragically lost their lives.  

From Land Search and Rescue, “The continued partnership with PGG Wrightson will enable Land Search and Rescue to further strengthen its capabilities and expand its reach.” 

For more information about Land Search and Rescue, getting involved in your local group and upskilling on safety and emergency response, head to the Land Search and Rescue website.