In a bid to encourage people to volunteer for St John, free first aid courses are being offered potential volunteers in rural areas.
Graham Roper, a director of NZ Safety Brokers, said the courses would be held in rural areas for people interested in volunteering for St John.
He said some people found it daunting to sign up for St John without any first aid training.
''This course will at least give them an understanding ... Here's a taster.''
Mr Roper said the offer was in response to St John volunteer shortages, particularly in remote rural areas. It was a ''joint effort'' from a few companies to help attract St John volunteers.
The registration costs for the NZQA recognised first aid course would be paid for by NZ Safety Brokers, Mr Roper said.
If about six people were interested in each area, the course would be offered.
Anyone interested in the first aid courses can email graham@nzsafetybrokers.co.nz
