New Zealand's first custom-built paediatric transfer ambulance is about to hit the road, making trips easier for tamariki travelling to hospital.
The Hato Hone St John ambulance, based in Auckland, was designed to ensure a more safe and comfortable experience for children.
St John general manager Debra Larsen told 1News it "moves away from the traditional, plain ambulance environment that most of our ambulances are".
"Every aspect of the ambulance has been carefully considered with that experience in mind, creating a space that supports both high-quality clinical care and a more reassuring, safe and engaging environment for our youngest patients and their whānau," she said.
"From a te ao Māori perspective, the fit-for-purpose ambulance recognises the vital role of whānau, enabling them to remain close and connected throughout what can often be a distressing journey. By centring both clinical excellence and whānau wellbeing, this initiative helps uphold the mana of tamariki and those who care for them."
It included a locker filled with "purpose-driven distraction activities" for their young patients and more room for specialist staff and equipment on board.
The layout also meant better access to treat patients and the use of critical equipment required to transfer intensive care services.
It was a game-changer for families such as the O’Connors, regularly travelling between Waikato and Starship hospitals with nine-year-old Taylin, who lives with cystic fibrosis.
Mum Shannon O'Connor said she "couldn't count how many" ambulance trips the whānau have had with Taylin.
"If this was available for Taylin at a time of need, it would create a lot of calm," she said.
Taylin said he liked the ambulance's colours and kiwiana artwork.
About a thousand children required an ambulance transfer last year – 60% to the Auckland region.
Starship paediatric intensive care unit’s Nic Jeannie said the hospital did "around 290 retrievals" nationwide last year.
"The neonatal intensive care does a good number of retrievals also. So, between us, you know, it's in use essentially every day of the year," she said.
The ambulance, funded by the Wright Family Foundation, will be up and running from next week.
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