St John provides ambulance services for Taranaki, however, they are also playing an increasing role in meeting the broader health needs of New Zealand communities. The 5% Project for June will be supporting to help build a new ambulance and community hub for St John Taranaki. The current site at Taranaki Base Hospital was purpose-built and opened in 1987 by the then operator of the ambulance service, the DHB.
In 32 years the North Taranaki population has increased significantly and New Zealand has an ageing population which has also driven ambulance demand. In December 2019 the St John Taranaki Ambulance Hub will no longer have use of their current site at Base Hospital due to the next stage of redevelopments on site. In 2018 the Community hall on St Aubyn Street was sold as this was inadequate for cadets, training and volunteer services. St John are now moving to a purpose-built Ambulance Hub and Community Centre. St John Taranaki have been tasked with raising approximately $3.2 Mil for both buildings. This purpose-built station is the main hub for the Taranaki region. It will service New Plymouth and all outstations (Stratford, Opunake and Hawera). The station will accommodate all New Plymouth frontline staff, ambulances, additional response vehicles, equipment and the Territory Manager.
For more information or to donate directly: St John Taranaki 12-3135-0125269-00 or contact stjohntaranaki@stjohn.org.nz
