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flag New Zealand's ambulance service hit record demand in 2025, driven by an ageing population and rising health crises.

flag New Zealand's emergency ambulance demand hit record levels in 2025, with 706,194 111 calls—30% higher than five years prior—and 551,399 incidents responded to, up 17% since 2020. flag Falls, respiratory issues, and cardiac events drove demand, with falls increasing 8% and affecting nearly half of those aged 65 and over. flag Preventable incidents like drowning and animal bites also rose sharply. flag A growing share of calls—7.4%—were resolved over the phone, reducing unnecessary hospital visits. flag Māori patients accounted for 21% of calls, reflecting improved access despite being 17% of the population. flag The system faces strain from an ageing population, rising acuity, and outdated infrastructure, prompting calls for reform and a new ten-year strategy focused on prevention, equity, and efficiency.

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