About us

“I originally joined Wellington Free in 2016 as an emergency call taker,” Nick says. “I trained as a dispatcher and for the last four years, I was the Team Manager in the Communications Centre on Brown Shift. It’s been an incredible journey.”

Nick’s new role as Wellington Community Liaison sees him become the public face of Wellington Free in the Greater Wellington area, Cheryl holds a similar role in the Wairarapa community. Nick is focused on increasing awareness, engagement and support for the service by building relationships and representing the organisation at public events.

“It’s about talking to people in schools, community groups, workplaces and helping them understand who we are, what we do, and how they can be a part of it.”

For the past six years, Nick has also been a tutor with The Lloyd Morrison Foundation Heartbeat CPR training programme,  running courses alongside his full-time role in the communications centre.

“Heartbeat training appealed to me because it gave me a chance to get out from behind the desk and connect with the community. It’s a way to teach essential lifesaving skills, share what Wellington Free does and meet some interesting people.”

These training sessions often leave a lasting impression. Some attendees come along after witnessing a cardiac arrest and not knowing how to help. That experience stays with them and drives them to learn.

“It’s always moving to meet someone who’s come to the course because they recently witnessed a cardiac arrest and didn’t know what to do. They want to be prepared next time.”

Even more powerful are the moments when someone in the room has survived a cardiac arrest themselves. Hearing their story and seeing them standing there, alive and well is a powerful reminder of why this training matters.

“They’re living proof that what we’re teaching really does save lives.”

Before joining Wellington Free, Nick worked in newspaper publishing. But he was ready for a change and looking for something more meaningful.

“I was very clear in my mind. I wanted to work for an organisation that was embedded in the community. Ideally, a not-for-profit, where I could do meaningful work and not just be stuck in a Monday to Friday routine. The clinical communications centre at Wellington Free ticked all those boxes.”

What's kept him here is the people.

“It’s hugely motivating to work alongside people who are so passionate and dedicated. They come into work every day with such a clear sense of purpose. It’s a high-performance culture, but in a way that’s warm, inclusive, and completely focused on delivering the best care to our communities.”

Outside of work, Nick leads an active and well-travelled life.

“I’m married and have two grown-up children. I’ve got two lovely dogs who take up a fair bit of time!” he laughs.

He and his family love exploring New Zealand by caravan and make the most of any opportunity to get away. Overseas adventures are on the cards too.

“I enjoy travelling, especially to interesting, warm places. I’m heading to Uganda later this year, which I’m really excited about.”

When he’s not planning his next trip, Nick enjoys pilates, going to the theatre and listening to music.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Nick and congratulations on your new role!

If you would like to get in touch with Nick about coming to speak at your school, community group or workplace please email him.