Wheels to Dunstan – A Record-Breaking Year of Service

The Wheels to Dunstan Trust recently held its Annual General Meeting, celebrating a year of remarkable growth and impact. This charitable service, which offers transport to medical appointments in Dunstan Hospital, Alexandra, and Dunedin, saw a 55% increase in trips and an 80% increase in passengers — both record highs.

Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, Wheels to Dunstan is designed to make accessing healthcare easier for those in our community. Whether it’s a local appointment or a full-day journey to Dunedin, the service ensures people can get the care they need without the stress of travel.

75% of trips connect with the St John Health Shuttle, which transports passengers from Cromwell to Dunedin and Mercy Hospital. The remaining 25% support travel to Dunstan Hospital, Cromwell-based specialists, and the Alexandra Eye Clinic.

While the numbers speak volumes, the increase is also a reflection of growing awareness, a rising population, and increasing health needs across the region. At Community Link, we’re seeing a noticeable rise in enquiries about regional health services — not just locally, but also into Queenstown, where health service options are expanding.

Need a Ride to a Medical Appointment?

Here’s how Wheels to Dunstan works:

For Local Appointments (Cromwell specialists, Dunstan Hospital, Alexandra Eye Clinic):
Call Community Link on 03 443 7799 (ideally with 24 hours’ notice)
A volunteer driver picks you up from your home, waits during your appointment, and brings you home
Appointments ideally between 10am and 3pm

For Appointments in Dunedin (Dunedin or Mercy Hospital):
You will need to connect Connects with the St John Health Shuttle in Cromwell
Book the shuttle first: 0800 103 046 (Option 1 for Otago Health Shuttle)
Then book Wheels to Dunstan: 03 443 7799
Pickup from your home at 6:30am, shuttle departs Cromwell at 7:30am, arrives in Dunedin around 10:30am
Appointments between 11:00am and 2:30pm, return same day

While the service is free, A koha is appreciated to help keep the wheels turning.

For bookings or more info, call Community Link on 03 443 7799.