UniMed has renewed its partnership with Life Flight, supporting critical care in the air as the organisation’s Health and Wellness partner.

The renewed partnership reflects the shared values of both organisations – as not-for-profits, UniMed and Life Flight exist to support New Zealanders when they need help most.

Flying intensive care, 24/7

Life Flight’s air ambulances operate around the clock, transporting critically ill patients from across New Zealand to the specialist hospital care they urgently require.

“Our air ambulances are essentially flying ICUs,” says Mark Johnston, Chief Executive of Life Flight Trust.

“They are fully equipped and staffed by specialist doctors and nurses to intensive care standards, allowing us to deliver complex, life-saving care in the air.”

“Our renewed partnership with UniMed is fantastic news,” he says. “Support like this helps ensure we can continue providing critical services, particularly at a time when charities continue to face funding challenges.”

Each Life Flight air ambulance provides a full bed-to-bed service, managing all logistics and medical coordination. Aircraft are equipped with specialist equipment and configured to allow up to four family members to stay with the patient throughout the journey – offering reassurance during what can be a very stressful time.

In 2025, 1,844 people received time-critical care from Life Flight.

A partnership built on shared values

Lance Walker, Chief Executive of UniMed, says the renewed partnership reflects a strong alignment between the two organisations.

“UniMed and Life Flight share the same philosophy – we are both not-for-profits, and we are both dedicated to supporting the health of New Zealanders, especially in tough circumstances,” he says.

“As part of our partnership, UniMed provides health insurance cover for Life Flight’s staff. That means if those on the frontline need medical care themselves, they can get the treatment they need quickly and return to their vital, life-saving work.”

Continuing a proud legacy as UniMed

UniMed’s connection with Life Flight goes back to 2021, when Accuro Health Insurance became the principal air ambulance supporter for Life Flight. In 2024, the insurance portfolio of Accuro Health Insurance Society was transferred to UniMed and in 2025, the brands unified under UniMed.

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of Life Flight’s family of sponsors,” Lance says.

“Together, our organisations represent close to a century of combined service to New Zealanders’ health and wellbeing.”

“I would encourage all New Zealanders to support the incredible work Life Flight does every day for patients and families across the country.”