Diocese Commits to Life-Saving AEDs in Every Parish by 2028

Synod 2025 passed a motion to support the expansion of publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AED) throughout the diocese. The decision reflects our commitment to loving service and better health outcomes for both our congregations and the wider community.

The agreed motion was to:
Commit to using their best endeavours to ensure that every Mission Unit installs a publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 100m of their primary worship location by 2028. AEDs at secondary worship locations in Mission Units are also strongly encouraged.

The motion was brought to Synod by Adam de Jong and Reverend Emily Spence from the Parishes of Hataitai–Kilbirnie and Miramar-Strathmore-Seatoun, whose experience in their own parish helped spark this important initiative.

Cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, and at any time. In Aotearoa New Zealand, more than 2,500 cardiac arrests occur in community settings each year, and survival rates drop by 10–15% for every minute without CPR or defibrillation. Using an AED more than doubles the chances of survival. With over 60% of our congregations aged 65 or older, the need for accessible AEDs is clear and urgent.

An AED is a simple, life-saving device that delivers an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat during sudden cardiac arrest. Having these devices available outside our churches ensures they can be accessed quickly in an emergency, potentially making the difference between life and death.

This motion is a tangible expression of our third mark of mission: to respond to human need with loving service. “By installing AEDs, we are saying to our communities: Your life matters to us. It’s an act of manaakitanga that strengthens relationships and opens doors for connection,” says Reverend Emily Spence.

The journey to installing AEDs offers rich opportunities for parishes to engage with their communities. Fundraising events, like the ceilidh and quiz nights hosted by All Saints Hataitai, have already shown how these efforts can draw people together. These gatherings not only raise funds but also break down barriers, welcoming those who might not usually step into a church. Collaboration with local businesses, health providers, and trusts such as the Lloyd Morrison Foundation Heartbeat can further deepen these ties.

Mission units are encouraged to begin planning now. Recommended AED models, such as the Lifepak CR2 Wi-Fi, are designed for ease of use and reliability, including features for both adults and children. Wellington Free Ambulance and Hato Hone St John offer guidance and support for purchasing and maintaining these devices, ensuring they remain ready for use.