HOW THE STARSHIP AIR AMBULANCE SAVED GIGI'S LIFE.

Starship is New Zealand’s national children’s hospital and home to the only dedicated Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for children needing intensive care for more than 48 hours. This makes Starship a vital resource for families across the country, but for many, it’s hundreds of kilometers away, leaving urgent care out of reach when it’s needed most. In these critical moments, the Starship National Air Ambulance becomes a lifeline, offering hope and fast medical intervention for families like Gigi’s, facing life-threatening situations. 

Three-year-old Gigi’s world was turned upside down in a moment. An unfortunate accident led to a fractured skull and a dangerous brain bleed. The medical team at Tauranga Hospital had to act quickly and knew that Gigi required immediate transport to Starship Hospital’s PICU - a facility equipped with advanced care and technology. 

However, the journey from Tauranga to Starship was not feasible by road, given the urgency of Gigi’s situation. Every moment counts, and the distance means the difference between life and death. For Gigi and many other children in similar critical situations, the Starship National Air Ambulance is not just a service—it is a lifeline.  

Starship National Air Ambulance plays an irreplaceable role in New Zealand’s healthcare system. With only one dedicated air ambulance available to serve the entire country, its importance cannot be overstated. In January this year, the Air Ambulance completed 25 flights, nearly double from the previous January.

Starship National Air Ambulance’s ability to respond to emergencies and provide critical care is made possible through the generosity of donors. Mercury customers who give monthly donations on their bills have been instrumental in funding this lifesaving service. Thanks to their support, $350,000 has been allocated to Starship National Air Ambulance, ensuring it remains ready to assist families in their time of need. 

For Gigi, the Starship National Air Ambulance saved her life by allowing her to receive treatment she desperately needed. Her story is a powerful example of the impact that timely medical support can have.

As we celebrate Gigi’s recovery and the incredible efforts of the Starship National Air Ambulance team, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Mercury’s customers. Their generous contributions have made it possible for the Air Ambulance to continue its lifesaving work, offering a lifeline to families across New Zealand.

If you haven’t donated but want to support this worthy cause, you can below.