Hato Hone St John is calling on New Zealanders to help strengthen the future of emergency healthcare, launching its 2026 Light the Way appeal to fund vital upgrades, repairs, and new builds for ambulance stations across Aotearoa.
Now in its third year, the nationwide fundraising campaign aims to support ten ambulance stations in Whangārei, Auckland, Morrinsville, Cambridge, Palmerston North, Nelson, North Canterbury, Ōamaru, Invercargill, and Alexandra.
Chief Executive Peter Bradley says the appeal is focused on ensuring frontline ambulance crews have safe, modern, and fit-for-purpose facilities to operate from as demand for emergency services continues to grow.
“Every day, our crews respond to emergencies in challenging circumstances, yet too often they’re returning to stations that are ageing, undersized, or no longer able to meet the demands of today’s emergency care,” Bradley says.
“Demand is rising, costs are increasing, and the infrastructure gap is widening.”
While acknowledging recent government funding announcements supporting some aspects of emergency healthcare, Bradley says significant funding challenges remain when it comes to maintaining and developing ambulance station infrastructure.
“Essential operational costs, maintenance, and the development of critical infrastructure like ambulance stations still rely heavily on community support,” he says.
“Without that support, many facilities will continue to deteriorate. Our crews deserve bases that are safe, modern, and fit for purpose.”
The appeal highlights a reality often unseen by the public. Ambulance stations are more than garages for emergency vehicles—they are operational hubs where crews rest, recover after difficult callouts, replenish equipment, complete training, and prepare for their next emergency response.
Hato Hone St John General Manager of Fundraising Leanne Tiscornia says donations will have a direct impact on frontline services.
“New Zealanders have always backed their ambulance service when it matters,” she says.
“This June, we’re asking them to do it again. By supporting the Light the Way appeal, you’re helping ensure our crews are ready to respond—with the spaces and support they need to refresh, restock, and get back out there for their communities when it matters most.”
The organisation says every dollar raised will go toward ensuring ambulance stations are safe, resilient, and capable of supporting life-saving care for future generations.
As pressure on health services continues to increase nationwide, Hato Hone St John hopes communities will once again step up to support the crews who answer the call in times of crisis.
Donations can be made throughout June via the Light the Way appeal website.
