From our Chief Executive and Board Chair

a message from the Chief Executive - David robinson

Kia ora tātou, Welcome to you, and to all our friends and supporters, as we acknowledge the achievements from the 2021/2022 financial year.

Since I first started in June 2021, it was clear that we have a wealth of passionate and caring people at Wellington Free Ambulance. The drive and dreams of our people and where we see Wellington Free Ambulance going is exciting, with these 12 months focused on embedding some important strategic direction at Wellington Free Ambulance. To put us on the pathway to our goals, we’ve shaped a strategic renewal in January 2022 (pg 6-16) that prioritises the people of Wellington Free Ambulance, the infrastructure required to deliver our service across the community, and the financial security needed to remain the only free ambulance service in Aotearoa New Zealand.

a message from the board chair - dame kerry prendergast

It is a privilege to reflect and recognise the significant milestones in the last financial year of 2021/2022 and turn our eyes to an exciting future.

These 12 months have continued to challenge and test us, with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 felt here in Aotearoa. Throughout the pandemic, I have been in constant awe of the dedication of the Wellington Free Ambulance team. Their unwavering commitment to protecting our patients and serving the people of Greater Wellington and Wairarapa through the most difficult of times is commendable. Our nation’s capital couldn’t be more fortunate to have an amazing team to navigate the continued effects of the pandemic. On behalf of the board, we cannot thank you enough for all that you do. I also want to give special mention to our kind community that gives generously to keep the ‘free’ in Wellington Free Ambulance. To all our supporters, business partners, major donors, and notably, our Cornerstone Partner Julie Nevett and The Lloyd Morrison Foundation – thank you. It is your support that ensures Wellington Free Ambulance can respond to people in need free of charge. To my fellow colleagues on the board, thank you for your time and contributions to supporting such an essential service in our region. This year we farewelled Board Member Ken Greer and thanked him for his six years of service and invaluable expertise. We also welcomed Chris Masters to the board. Chris brings a wealth of experience in integrated care and clinical quality. The ambulance sector is continuously evolving at a pace quicker than we have previously seen, with events such as COVID-19 elevating the need for future-proofed plans and directions. As Wellington Free Ambulance embarks on a journey of strategic renewal, we look forward to guiding them on the venture ahead that will benefit the people of Greater Wellington and Wairarapa.