Shuttle service celebrated

After decades of volunteering for youth and health services, Havelock’s Pamela Hayter has been recognised as a Member of the Order of St John.

Pamela has spent much of her adult life working with local youth and now nears her 25th year of volunteering with the ambulance service.

She volunteers as a Waka Ora Health Shuttle driver for Hato Hone St John and manages the shuttle roster, ensuring locals can access vital health appointments.

“I’ve had some really good kids come through,” Pamela says. “One of them even told his mum he saved a friend’s life because of what I taught him.”

The Order of St John represents a long-standing tradition of service, care, and humanitarian values dating back to medieval times with principles of helping those in need of health and emergency care.

Pamela’s work has touched both ends of the age spectrum – supporting young people and helping older residents stay connected.

Pamela says the tight-knit nature of Havelock in particular, and Marlborough as a whole, makes giving back even more rewarding.

“I’ll be travelling up to Auckland to receive my 25-year service medal, which is humbling to be a part of but it’s not about the recognition – I’m also looking forward to seeing a few friends up there for the ceremony.

“But it is just good to give back, and it makes me feel good doing so, so I’ll keep volunteering until I fall off the perch,” she says with a laugh.

Irene Straker, Hato Hone St John Community Transport Manager, says the honour is well deserved.

“We’re so proud of Pamela and thrilled to see her recognised as a Member within the Order of St John,” Irene says.

“Her kindness and commitment shine through in everything she does, especially as a volunteer Waka Ora Health Shuttle driver.”