Her farm, young family of four, and rural community was stranded, walloped by Mother Nature - but she “exceeded”.
Emily Higgins was a newly-qualified Hato Hone St John first responder in Tapawera when her bravery and resilience were tested in Nelson Tasman’s severe weather event.
She immediately made herself available amid the pandemonium, transporting the ambulance out of harm’s way, acting as the organisation’s sole point of contact when the phone network was down, and assisting patients who were unable to leave their homes.
Emily went further, serving as a ground liaison for a Health New Zealand helicopter mission, coordinating logistics so medical teams could access isolated residents and their needs.
Her “inspirational, courageous and selfless leadership” was recognised with a Chief Executive Award from the organisation’s chief executive, Peter Bradley, at Tapawera Ambulance Station on 12 December.
Emily thanked her family and friends for coping with “the late nights, unexpected callouts, and me constantly talking about shifts”, and acknowledged her colleagues.
“None of us do this alone — we train together, we show up together, and we get through the tough moments together. You all make this experience what it is,” she said.
“This award isn’t just mine — it represents the whole team and the amazing work we all do.
“I’m proud to be part of Hato Hone St John, and I’m excited to keep learning, keep helping, and keep serving our community.”
Emily’s nominator for the honour was group operations manager Tim Creagh, who lauded her for going “above and beyond” in a challenging and uncertain time in Tapawera, calling her efforts “nothing short of inspirational.”
“Her dedication, calmness under pressure, and generosity of spirit embody the very best of what it means to be a first responder,” he said.
“Any call from our management team was always met with a ‘Yes, how can I help?’ She exceeded what was required of her during this time - and continues to do so.”
