Christchurch

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Emergency Services

Information on emergency healthcare, including ambulance and after-hours services available in the city.

Sections

1. Medical Emergencies

Emergency Number: 111

  • What to Do: Dial 111 for immediate medical assistance in life-threatening situations (e.g., heart attack, severe injury, or unconsciousness). This number connects you to ambulance services, police, or fire services.
  • Service Provider: St John Ambulance is the primary provider of emergency medical services in Christchurch.
  • Procedure:
    1. Call 111 and ask for "ambulance."
    2. Provide your location and a description of the emergency.
    3. Follow the operator's instructions until help arrives.
  • Costs:
    • Emergency ambulance services are not free for most people.
    • For New Zealand residents, the cost is approximately NZD 98 for an emergency call-out.
    • For non-residents, the cost is higher (around NZD 800–1,000). Travel insurance is highly recommended for visitors.
  • Non-Emergency Medical Care:
    • For non-urgent medical issues, visit a General Practitioner (GP) or an Urgent Care Clinic (e.g., 24 Hour Surgery in Christchurch).
    • For health advice, call Healthline (0800 611 116), a free 24/7 service staffed by registered nurses.

2. Fire Services

Emergency Number: 111

  • What to Do: Dial 111 and ask for "fire" in case of a fire, hazardous material spill, or other fire-related emergencies.
  • Service Provider: Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is responsible for fire services in Christchurch.
  • Procedure:
    1. Call 111 and state the nature of the emergency.
    2. Provide your location and any relevant details (e.g., type of fire, people trapped, etc.).
    3. Evacuate the area if it is safe to do so.
  • Costs:
    • Fire services are free for all emergencies.
    • However, false alarms may incur a fee, especially for businesses.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Fire safety is taken very seriously in New Zealand. Ensure smoke alarms are installed and functional in your accommodation.
    • Fire drills are common in workplaces and schools.

3. Police Assistance

Emergency Number: 111

  • What to Do: Dial 111 and ask for "police" in situations involving immediate danger, crime in progress, or threats to personal safety.
  • Non-Emergency Police Assistance:
    • For non-urgent matters (e.g., reporting a theft or lost property), call the non-emergency police number: 105 or visit a local police station.
    • You can also report non-urgent crimes online at police.govt.nz.
  • Procedure:
    1. Call 111 for emergencies or 105 for non-urgent issues.
    2. Provide details of the incident, including location and description of people involved.
  • Costs:
    • Police services are free for all residents and visitors.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • The New Zealand Police are known for being approachable and community-focused.
    • It is common to see police officers patrolling on foot, bicycles, or in cars.

4. Search and Rescue (SAR)

Emergency Number: 111

  • What to Do: Dial 111 and ask for "police" if someone is lost or in danger in remote or outdoor areas. The police coordinate search and rescue operations in collaboration with volunteer organizations like LandSAR (Land Search and Rescue).
  • Procedure:
    1. Call 111 and provide details about the missing person or situation.
    2. Share as much information as possible, including last known location, clothing, and any medical conditions.
  • Costs:
    • Search and rescue services are free in New Zealand, even for visitors.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Outdoor activities are popular in Christchurch, but the weather can change rapidly. Always inform someone of your plans and carry appropriate gear.
    • Download the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s Plan My Walk app for safety tips and trail information.

5. Mental Health Crisis Support

Emergency Number: 111

  • What to Do: Dial 111 and ask for "ambulance" or "police" if someone is in immediate danger due to a mental health crisis (e.g., suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or harm to others).
  • Non-Emergency Mental Health Support:
    • Call or text 1737 to speak with a trained counselor. This is a free, 24/7 service available to anyone in New Zealand.
    • Contact the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) Mental Health Services for ongoing support.
  • Procedure:
    1. For emergencies, call 111 and describe the situation.
    2. For non-urgent support, call 1737 or visit a local mental health service provider.
  • Costs:
    • Crisis support services like 1737 are free.
    • Ongoing mental health care may have costs, but subsidies are available for residents through the public health system.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Mental health is increasingly recognized as an important issue in New Zealand. Seeking help is encouraged and supported.
    • Be aware of cultural sensitivities when discussing mental health, especially with Māori or Pasifika communities. Respect for cultural practices and traditions is essential.

General Tips for Using Emergency Services in Christchurch

  1. Language Support: Emergency operators in New Zealand speak English, but translation services are available if needed. Clearly state your language preference when calling.
  2. Mobile Phones: You can call 111 from any phone, even if you have no credit or are not connected to a network.
  3. Stay Calm: Emergency operators are trained to guide you through the process. Stay calm and provide clear, concise information.
  4. Know Your Location: Always be aware of your surroundings and address, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas.
  5. Emergency Preparedness: Christchurch is in an earthquake-prone region. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures and have an emergency kit ready.

By understanding and utilizing these emergency services, you can ensure your safety and well-being while in Christchurch. If you have further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask!