Waiheke’s new St John Health Shuttle provides essential service

St John Waiheke Island is pleased to welcome the island’s first Health Shuttle into service. The vehicle, originally running in the West Auckland area, will provide much needed transportation to those unable to get medical appointments by any other means.

The Health Shuttle run by volunteer drivers with basic First Aid training will be primarily used to transport Waiheke Island residents and visitors to and from doctors, physiotherapy and other health clinic appointments. When transport to hospital appointments is needed, the Health Shuttle Service will drop patients down to the ferry when available.

Waitemata St John Territory Manager, Andy Gummer is pleased that the service is coming to Waiheke when it is needed most.

“The Health Shuttle Service has proved successful around different parts of New Zealand and with an ageing population, this vehicle and the service that it will bring to Waiheke’s residents will prove to be invaluable.”

The Health Shuttle Service is completely self-funded and a donation is appreciated to help cover the fuel costs.

Patients will be directed to the much needed service through local doctors, but if people feel that they need the service they can call the Waiheke RSA to book the St John Waiheke Health Shuttle Service on 09 372 9019. Bookings will need to be made at least 24 hours in advance.

For more information and for images contact: St John Northern Region Communications Advisor Brodie Stewart brodie.stewart@stjohn.org.nz or 027 290 8746