St John goes green in makeover

SMART OPERATORS: St John Northland territory manager Ben Locki (left) wears the old uniform, while Northland district operations manager Tony Devanney models the new look. PHOTO/ JOHN STONE

It's a case of out with the old and in with the new for Northland St John ambulance officers, who will now be decked out in green.

Part of a nationwide roll-out, it is the organisation's first major uniform upgrade in 12 years.

Whangarei St John ambulance officers were modelling their new uniforms for the first time on Wednesday, with Northland district operations manager Tony Devanney describing his as comfortable and durable.

Staff were embracing the change while enjoying positive feedback from colleagues and the community, he said.

"It's very well-liked and it just looks more fit for use. It feels stronger and more robust. It's definitely more practical and durable than our previous ones."

While the green get-up is a departure from the white shirt, black pants and green jacket of the previous 12 years, changes were necessary for better function, comfort and cost, Mr Devanney said.

The new uniform, which comprises a dark green shirt, white under-shirt and dark green cargo trousers, costs less to produce than the old one.

"We have estimated there will be a saving of about $400,000 over three years, including replacement and roll-out costs. That's a saving of $130 per uniform kit issued to full-time paid staff," he said.

Another benefit is the fact green is the recognised colour associated with medical care. "We definitely won't get confused with other services."

St John's last major overhaul was in 2002, when the most recent look replaced maroon epaulettes, a tie and a jumper.