From earthquakes, floods, fires, and snowstorms Lavina Anderson has seen a lot in her 30 years as a disaster welfare and support volunteer. To mark her incredible service, she recently received Honorary Life Membership, awarded to people who’ve given exceptional service and dedication to Red Cross.

New Zealand Red Cross is always here and part of our communities. Over the 2023/24 year, we have continued to support vulnerable communities at home and overseas, while making measured progress to ensure our 10-year strategic plan – Strategy 2030 – is achieved.

Mental health and wellbeing are important in nurturing our emotional wellbeing, which plays a huge role in our daily lives. Our Psychological First Aid Team Lead, Alistair Souch, says, " It's okay not to be okay.”

The entire Red Cross Balclutha Branch received a National Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of their 84 years of service. The award recognises people who’ve made a special and noteworthy contribution to Red Cross.

Jaimee Astle, our Senior Web Advisor, recently attended a first aid course at our Christchurch Service Centre, not knowing that within half an hour of finishing the first day of training, she would need to use the skills she'd just learned – and twice in quick succession.