Hato Hone St John is urging New Zealanders to help raise $2 million in just 24 hours, with every dollar donated set to be doubled.

The emergency service provider’s Giving Day, part of its Light the Way Annual Appeal, will run from 6am on June 25 to 6am on June 26, with donations matched by private and corporate supporters.

The appeal focuses on improving conditions for frontline ambulance crews, with funds going towards the rebuild and upgrade of 10 stations across the country.

In a media release, Hato Hone St John said crews responded to nearly 700,000 emergencies over the past year, travelling millions of kilometres to assist people in urgent need. However, growing demand for services and ageing infrastructure are placing increasing pressure on facilities.

Many ambulance stations were now more than 30 years old and no longer fit for purpose, with some lacking basic amenities or space to house vehicles and essential equipment, the organisation said.

In some areas, ambulances were forced to park outside due to limited capacity.

Hato Hone St John ambulance operations general manager Rosanne Shaw said stations were critical to the wellbeing and readiness of crews.

“Ambulance stations are far more than just buildings – they are where our crews prepare, reset, debrief and respond from,” Shaw said.

“But right now, many of those spaces simply aren’t keeping pace with the communities they serve.”

The organisation said rising population numbers, an ageing population, and increasingly complex health needs have driven a sharp increase in demand over the past decade.

Fundraising general manager Leanne Tiscornia said the appeal highlighted the wider support network behind every emergency response.

“No ambulance response happens in isolation. Behind every callout is a broader team of volunteers, donors and communities helping make that response possible,” she said.

Tiscornia said Giving Day was a chance for Kiwis to come together and support frontline crews.

“New Zealanders have always achieved extraordinary things when we unite. This is about making sure our crews have the facilities they need to continue caring for our communities.”

People can donate or find more information at lighttheway.org.nz