Medical Emergency - What to Do
If you or someone in your group experiences a medical emergency while on the trail, here’s what to do:
1. Call 111 – New Zealand Emergency Services
If the situation is serious or life-threatening, dial 111 immediately. This connects you to ambulance, fire, or police services anywhere in New Zealand.
If you’re able to reach emergency services, give as much detail as possible about your location. Use your trail map and nearby landmarks to help identify where you are. Some trails have kilometre markers, signs, or track intersections that can assist responders in locating you.
2. If You Don’t Have Mobile Coverage
There may be areas along the trail where mobile coverage is limited – such as gorges, valleys, or remote ridgelines. In these cases:
- Ensure the patient is safe and warm. Move them off the trail if needed and shield them from the elements.
- Note your location clearly. Identify any landmarks, trail features, or signposts nearby.
- Consider how best to seek help:
- Ride or walk to the nearest farmhouse or building that appears occupied.
- Climb to a higher point where mobile signal may be available.
- Return to a point where you previously had coverage or where you’re likely to encounter other trail users.
3. For Less Urgent Medical Help
If someone is feeling unwell but it’s not an emergency, you can call Healthline for advice:
Healthline: 0800 611 116 (Free, 24/7)
This service is especially helpful if someone becomes unwell overnight or has a condition that you’re unsure about but doesn’t appear life-threatening.
4. Doctors and Pharmacies
If you need non-emergency medical assistance during your ride, there are several doctors and pharmacies located along or near the trails. These providers can help with common medical issues, minor injuries, prescriptions, and health advice.
Doctors
Alexandra
Name: Health Central
Address: 105/107 Tarbert Street, Alexandra
Phone: +64 3 440 0295
Ranfurly
Name: Ranfurly Medical Centre
Address: 1 Tyrone Street
Phone: +64 3 444 1073
Roxburgh
Name: Roxburgh Medical Centre
Address: 65 Scotland Street
Phone: +64 3 446 8200
Lawrence
Name: Tuapeka Community Health
Address: 43 Whitehaven Street
Phone: +64 3 485 9056
Milton
Name: Milton Medical Centre
Address: 7 Eden Street, Milton
Phone: +64 3 417 8226
Pharmacies
Alexandra
Name: Alexandra Pharmacy
Address: 60 Centennial Avenue
Phone: +64 3 448 8703
Name: Unichem Alexandra Pharmacy
Address: 4 Centennial Avenue
Phone: +64 3 448 8871
Ranfurly
Name: Maniototo Pharmacy
Address: 25 Charlemont Street East
Phone: +64 3 444 9111
Roxburgh
Name: Highland Pharmacy
Address: 107 Scotland Street
Phone: +64 3 446 8009
Lawrence
Name: Highland Pharmacy Depot
Address: 14 Ross Place
Phone: +64 3 485 1005
Milton
Name: Milton Pharmacy
Address: 69/71 Union Street, Milton
Phone: +64 3 417 8431
Final Tips
- Always carry a charged mobile phone and let someone know your route for the day.
- Keep a basic first aid kit with your group.
- If riding in a remote area, consider carrying a trail map or navigation app with offline access.
- Know the name of the trail and the direction you’re heading – this can help emergency responders assist you faster.
Stay safe, ride prepared, and don’t hesitate to call for help when needed.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to seek assistance early than to wait.