Government announces $21 million funding increase for St. John’s

“Hato Hone St John provides a vital service, ensuring people get timely treatment in the event of an emergency. This is significant growth in a tight financial environment,” Costello said.

The new funding brings the total support from the New Zealand Ministry of Health and ACC for the 2024/25 financial year to almost $357 million. This investment will support the provision of emergency road ambulance services throughout New Zealand.

Doocy said funding is critical to maintaining access to emergency health care.

“We know that adequate funding for our road ambulance services is essential to ensuring New Zealanders have access to emergency health care.”

Costello also expressed relief that negotiations with St. John’s unions had concluded, assuring that no further strikes would disrupt services.

“We know Health NZ and ACC are working closely with Hato Hone St John to minimize disruption and ensure essential services remain available,” she said.