Always call 111 if someone is seriously unwell, injured, or in danger. Our emergency services will assess the situation and send the right type of help.
This may include:
- sending an ambulance
- giving advice about other care options.
Ambulance services in rural communities
Ambulance services are an important part of health care in rural New Zealand. In many areas, the ambulance may be your first, or only, emergency health provider. Hato Hone St John and Wellington Free Ambulance respond to emergencies across the country, providing care at the scene and transporting people when needed.
Paramedics can assess and treat people on the spot, and in some situations, they may be able to treat you at home without taking you to hospital.
In smaller or remote communities, trained volunteer ambulance officers or first responders may arrive first to provide initial care until the ambulance gets there. These volunteers are local community members who are trained to help in emergencies.
If you are unsure what to do, call 111. The team will assess your situation and make sure the right help is sent to you.
Air ambulance services
In some parts of Aotearoa New Zealand, air ambulances — helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft — are used to get people the care they need when road access is limited or when specialist care is urgently required. These services are coordinated by clinical teams who assess each situation and send air support if needed.
Air ambulances are staffed by highly trained medical teams and are equipped to care for people with serious or complex conditions. They are often the fastest way to reach hospital care from remote or isolated locations.
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