The Government has announced a major funding boost for ambulance services across Aotearoa, with $35 million allocated to strengthen frontline emergency response capability amid growing nationwide demand.
The Budget 2026 investment will support additional ambulance crews, more emergency call handlers, upgraded technology systems and expanded clinical support services designed to improve response times and patient care.
Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello say the package is aimed at ensuring ambulance services can respond more effectively as emergency incidents continue rising across the country.
The funding package also includes plans for two new ambulance hubs in Auckland, including one in South Auckland, alongside the rollout of an electronic patient clinical record system intended to improve information sharing between ambulance crews and hospitals.
Government projections estimate ambulance incidents will increase significantly over the next four years, placing additional strain on already stretched emergency healthcare systems.
Additional investment will support expanded clinical advice services, with the Government aiming to reduce avoidable emergency department transports and ease pressure on hospitals facing high patient demand.
The latest package builds on previous increases in ambulance funding from Health New Zealand and ACC, which together already contribute hundreds of millions annually toward emergency road ambulance operations.
Ambulance services in New Zealand are primarily delivered through Hato Hone St John across most of the country, while Wellington Free Ambulance provides emergency services throughout the Wellington region.
The ambulance sector has repeatedly warned of growing workforce shortages, volunteer pressures and increasing operational costs, particularly in rural and high-deprivation communities.
Health experts say ambulance services are increasingly acting as a critical frontline response for broader health system pressures, including mental health crises, ageing populations and hospital overcrowding.
The funding announcement comes as the Government continues unveiling Budget 2026 priorities focused on health, emergency response capability and core public services.
