Thanks to the donation of a new Hyundai Santa Fe to St John Taranaki, the local ambulance fleet has been updated.

The vehicle, generously donated by Hyundai New Zealand, will be used to respond by a paramedic to those patients who have called 111 for medical help but who might not require an ambulance response.

St John Territory Manager Megan Stewart says the vehicle will also be used to provide clinical back up to ambulances and respond quickly to the most serious incidents such as cardiac arrests.

“The donation from Hyundai will allow us to repurpose the existing vehicle and ensure the district has an up to date and fit for purpose emergency response car to support the traditional emergency ambulances.”

Ms Stewart says that if a patient is assessed as needing an ambulance urgently, St John will send one as soon as possible.

“In some cases however, if the situation is not life threatening, the best response may be a face to face assessment by an experienced paramedic who can then determine the best care for the patient.”

The vehicle currently used for this role has been replaced with the new Santa Fe and can already be seen responding around the district to support the community and ensure patients receive the right care at the right time.

Hyundai New Zealand and St John have had a long-standing partnership that spans over 15 years.

Hyundai New Zealand General Manager Andy Sinclair says the Santa Fe is the latest in a long line of vehicles it has provided to the charity in support of New Zealand communities.

“As a 100% Kiwi owned company we are committed to supporting Kiwi communities. St John plays an essential role in delivering care to the New Zealand public so we are pleased to help out in this way. The new Santa Fe will be a valuable asset for St John’s emergency response.”

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For further information please contact:

Kimberley Waters, PR Manager, Hyundai New Zealand on 0275 484 417 or email kwaters@hyundai.co.nz

Ngaire Jones, Communications Advisor, St John on 021 0549135 or email ngaire.jones@stjohn.org.nz