Aeromedical Commissioning Programme

The Aeromedical Commissioning Programme aims to transform Aotearoa New Zealand’s air ambulance system to improve patient and community health outcomes. The vision of the Programme is for equitable access to a high-performing aeromedical service that is safe, sustainable, and integrated to deliver excellent care.

The Programme is the second phase of the long-term reconfiguration of air ambulance services in Aotearoa, New Zealand. The Programme is guided by the Whakataukī: I orea te tuatara ka patu ki waho - A problem is solved by continuing to find solutions.

The aeromedical system consists of clinically crewed air ambulances (helicopters and planes) with associated road ambulance transfers, hospital flight teams, and clinical and logistical coordination.  

The air ambulance system is jointly funded by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and ACC and managed by the Ambulance Team. 

Find out more about the Ambulance Team

We are partnering with stakeholders across the sector to facilitate the design of a high-level future operating model for the air ambulance system.

The approach and future design will be guided and supported by the Clinical and Technical Advisory Group who are technical and clinical experts from across the air ambulance system.

Find about more about the Clinical and Technical Advisory Group

Design working groups, consisting of sector subject matter experts, will develop the initial design solutions, which will then be tested with stakeholders from the broader aeromedical system. There will be an opportunity for wider engagement and consultation on the draft design in early 2025.

Find out more about the Design Working Group Membership (PDF 99KB)

We will keep stakeholders and the community updated with what is happening through newsletters, as this work progresses.

Find copies of our newsletters below.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list, email airambulanceteam@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Please see the Ministerial press release regarding improvements to the rotary wing fleet and operating model work

Government funds helicopter replacements | Beehive.govt.nz

From September 2024 we expect to:

• establish Design Working Groups to develop a draft high level future operating model.

From March 2025 we expect to:

• consult on the draft high level future operating model with the broader sector.

From May 2025 we expect to:

• seek Joint Purchaser approval for the draft future operating model.

If you like to ask a question, subscribe to our communications, or get in touch, email airambulanceteam@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz