Learn CPR in Christchurch | World Restart a Heart Day Training

Illustration of CPR compressions, anyone can step up to save a life.

Every October, City First Aid Training joins the world in marking World Restart a Heart Day, a timely reminder that learning CPR and how to use an AED can mean the difference between life and death.

Here in Canterbury, sudden cardiac arrest strikes more often than many people realise. It can happen anywhere: on the rugby field, in the office, in the garden, or at the dinner table. The truth is sobering: most cardiac arrests happen at home, and without CPR, survival is rare. Starting CPR quickly - and using an AED - dramatically increases the chance of survival. Maybe even for someone you love.

Why CPR and AED Training Matters

• In New Zealand, only about 11% of adults survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest overall.

• In the Utstein group (witnessed arrests, shockable rhythm), survival climbs to 31%.

• Every minute without CPR or AED use cuts survival chances by 10–15%.

These numbers show why speed and confidence matter. But it’s not just about statistics, it’s about giving mums, dads, teammates, and workmates the best possible chance to survive with quick, effective action.

The Power of Two Hands

You don’t need to be a doctor or paramedic to act. A trained bystander is a critical part of the chain of survival. It only takes two hands, some willingness, and the confidence to start CPR. Every strong, steady compression buys precious time by keeping blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and heart until advanced help arrives.

CPR in 3 Simple Steps

Want to know how easy it is to get started? Here are the basics:

1. Call 111: get help on the way.

2. Push hard and fast: in the centre of the chest: 100–120 times per minute.

3. Use an AED if available: turn it on and follow the prompts.

(Training builds confidence, but even these simple actions can increase the chance of survival.)

Why Learn CPR Now?

• Most cardiac arrests happen at home.

• CPR can't guarantee survival, but it does increase the chances.

• AEDs are everywhere in Christchurch, you can find them in malls, schools, gyms, workplaces, but they need someone confident enough to use them and the muscle memory to go grab it.

How You Can Get Involved

This year, City First Aid is marking Restart a Heart Day with two special celebration offers to help more Cantabrians get trained:

Round One – NZ First Aid Certificate (2-day course, Oct 8–9, La Vida Centre, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch). We’ve released 5 half-price seats for this course. Available for 5 days only, or until they’re gone. 👉 Use voucher code Restart at checkout. When you book 👉 here for the NZ First Aid Certificate course

Round Two – Foundation First Aid (1-day course, Oct 16, Rangiora) On Restart a Heart Day itself, bring a friend and they’ll train for half price. (Full details will be released next week.)

Other Ways to Make a Difference

• Join GoodSAM: Already confident with CPR? Download the free GoodSAM app and register as a responder. You could be alerted to nearby cardiac arrests and be the difference before an ambulance arrives.

• Refresh your skills: If you already hold a certificate, book in for a Revalidation First Aid course.

• Talk with your whānau: Have the “what if” conversation at home and make sure everyone knows where the nearest AED is. To find the one closest to your house use AEDlocations.co.nz

  
  

Be the Difference

At City First Aid we often say: “the first life you’ll save is your own.” Knowing what to do gives you confidence, and confidence means you act with purpose, not panic.

So this October, make the commitment. Join us, bring a friend, or give the gift of life-saving skills to someone you love.

Not in Christchurch? We’ll also be running courses in Kaikōura and Hanmer Springs in November. Keep an eye on our dates - or message us to register your interest.

Together, let’s make Canterbury Ready. Safe. Confident.