Hard at work
The local ambulance service was originally held under the control of the Thames Hospital Board until 1980 when Hato Hone St John took over the day to day running of the service. At the time the Thames Hospital Ambulance Operators Board (THAOB) was created, and employed one full time staff member.
It wasn’t until 1994 that Hato Hone St John Thames joined the wider Auckland Area which in turn led the appointment of a District Operations Manager and an increase to two full time staff. It was this same year that the organisation took over its current premises.
Today the organization has four full time officers providing 24/7 cover for the Thames community. Around 15 committed volunteers and paramedic students from the Auckland University of Technology further support these full time officers in providing a comprehensive service. The Thames office holds a further four staff orientated towards supporting the district, its eight stations, and six first response groups.
Historical Fact
In 1994 when Hato Hone St John moved to its current site, the tin garage needed to be collected from the Hospital. As no permit was gained for its transport, the District Operations Manager's car was used to block the road when it was loaded onto the truck, while two ambulances escorted the truck to its destination. Who knows, a little No. 8 wire might have been used as well!
We need volunteer ambulance officers To enquire or apply please phone Julia Te Huia on 027 4580443 or ring the station 07 8680560.