Eighty people across health, emergency, business, and government sectors in Niue have received life-saving first aid training through a joint initiative between Hato Hone St John (HHStJ) and the Government of Niue.

HHStJ senior first aid tutor Margaret Smith, along with tutors Sheree King and Glen ‘Ping’ Gould, delivered seven courses over four days in Niue’s capital, Alofi.

It marked the first formal first aid training on the island in over a decade.

Margaret Smith, Glen Gould, Oscilyna Kulatea and Sheree King in Niue.

Niue Health Department co-ordinated the trip, with sessions held at the Niue Foou Hospital, the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue and the local police station because of space constraints.

Tutor Margaret Smith said the trip offered a unique opportunity to upskill the community.

“Everyone who took part in the training was so engaged and open to learn,” Smith said. “I love teaching, and teaching over there was an amazing experience. We all had a brilliant time.”

The team taught a Level 2 first aid course and two advanced resuscitation courses. The training covered basic life support, emergency response and AED use.

“Having as many people as possible knowing first aid and basic life-saving skills is vital,” Smith said. “Knowing that the people we taught can now share their knowledge is not only great for their families and communities, but the island as a whole.”

Niue, known as “the Rock”, has a population of around 1820 and a land area of just 260 square kilometres.

Tutor Glen “Ping” Gould said the advanced resuscitation students showed strong commitment.

“The students were amazing and even wanted to practise airway management in their breaks,” Gould said. “When I realised how important this was to them, I adapted the course to fit their needs.”

Tutor Sheree King also praised the Niuean community for their warmth and enthusiasm.

“The people were happy, friendly, and resilient. It made the experience incredibly rewarding,” King said.

Former Wellington paramedic Oscilyna “Kiu”’ Kulatea, now based in Niue, played a key role in planning the visit.

“Kiu was so great and helped us a lot. It was nice to have someone who works there in health assisting us,” Smith said.

Despite heat, humidity, and early-morning rooster wake-up calls, all three tutors said they would return in a heartbeat.

“Imparting essential first aid knowledge, knowing that it could save somebody’s life, is just an incredible feeling,” Smith said.