New Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) were installed in a number of rural and isolated locations around South Wairarapa recently, including in some of our community halls.

The addition of the AEDs will further equip these halls as key community facilities, including during medical emergencies and natural disasters.

The AEDS were donated by Wairarapa Recovery Office (WRO) as part of an ongoing programme to support and resource communities in the region for when emergencies happen. WRO works across the three Wairarapa district councils (South Wairarapa, Carterton and Masterton) to coordinate disaster recovery and community emergency resilience efforts.

“The better equipped and prepared our communities are before an emergency, the better they will be able to respond and recover afterwards,” said WRO Programme Manager Simon Taylor.

“The AEDs are among a range of resources and equipment that have been donated to communities likely to be isolated during emergency events to help them manage after a disaster. Having them installed in facilities such as halls and marae also means they will provide a lifesaving resource all year round.”

Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA) installed and will provide ongoing maintenance for the AEDs. Community Liaison Cheryl Watson said WFA was grateful for the additional AEDS and the opportunity to install them in more remote communities.

“The AEDs will provide an essential lifesaving device in communities that have limited access to health services when a medical emergency happens. It’s been great to work with the Recovery Office on how we can support and equip these communities for their time of need.”

The installations are being followed by AED and CPR training for volunteers in these communities.

Image of AED training at Ruakokoputuna training session that was held on 28 August, 2024.