Police say the stolen items included drugs that could be fatal if taken in the wrong combination or dosage.
Helicopters Otago chief executive Graeme Gale said he was furious about the theft, which could have put the lives of injured or ill patients at risk.
The theft took place after a Queenstown-based helicopter transported a critically ill patient to Dunedin Hospital in foul weather late on Saturday night, Mr Gale said.
The machine was cleaned and restocked at the Taieri Airfield, but by about 2am the weather conditions deteriorated and the Queenstown crew decided to tie the machine down and spend the night at the Taieri Airfield base to wait out the weather.
"And within a few minutes of them actually going to bed, this absolutely low-life moron came into the helicopter and actually removed the critical medical bag out of the back seat," Mr Gale said.
"This is the worst of the worst of the worst."
If the crew had not noticed the supplies were missing, it could have had deadly consequences for the next emergency mission for the rescue helicopter, he said.
Mr Gale said CCTV footage had captured a pretty good view of a lone male who entered the restricted airfield before breaking into the helicopter and stealing the supplies.
He was unable to provide the footage as it was now part of a police investigation.
However, he is offering a $10,000 reward for the next 48 hours - from 8am on Tuesday.
To be able to claim the reward, Mr Gale said he wanted two things.
"Return my bag with the equipment in the bag, the medical kit with the equipment in the bag.
"And I also want the name of the person that actually took it," he said.
"Someone will know who it is. Someone will be a friend.
"Here’s an easy 10 grand for you.
"I want this guy prosecuted and dealt with by the police."
Acting area investigations manager Detective Sergeant Hayden Smale said the theft was concerning on many levels.
"Beyond putting the lives of air ambulance patients at risk by taking these essential medical supplies, some of the drugs stolen pose a significant risk to anyone who may choose to take them recreationally.
"The wrong combination or dosage could potentially be fatal, and we urge extreme caution for anyone who may come into contact with these stolen medical supplies."
Police would be "working hard" on the matter.
• Contact police on 105 - reference number 250112/9460, or Crime Stoppers, 0800 555 111.
