About Us

Cathie explains that her decision to donate an ambulance came after meeting former Wellington Free Ambulance patron, the late Shirley Martin.

“I’d had a dream that I wanted to do this, thought about it, talked to the whole family, and that’s how it came about. I then met Shirley – she was absolutely lovely, she told me all about Wellington Free Ambulance. It was from there I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Cathie says.

My husband, Terry, died 20 years ago; to have this ambulance in memory of him is lovely, this is amazing,” she says.

Because our paramedics are constantly on the move, having this new ambulance ready to go is a huge benefit to the service. It means we can continue to be in the best position to respond and provide the best possible care – whenever we’re needed.

Wellington Free Ambulance Chair Dame Kerry Prendergast explains this is a remarkable donation and thanks Cathie for her incredible generosity.

“With this donation, you have made a significant contribution to your community.

“In its lifetime, this ambulance will travel around 300,000kms and help care for thousands of people whenever and wherever they need us most. It will be ready to go rain or shine, 24/7, 365 days of the year.

“Please know that we couldn’t do what we do without the generosity of people like you, Cathie,” Kerry says. 

Acting Chief Executive Sarah Lewis says it is an honour to celebrate the launch of this new ambulance with Cathie, her friends and the wider Wilkinson family.

“To receive donations like this really does make a huge difference to our service, and in turn our communities. So thank you,” Sarah adds.

The new ambulance will be based at our Greytown Ambulance Station, but will travel all across Wellington and Wairarapa when required.

Keep an eye out for ambulance 482 working hard in your neighbourhood.