First to care : 125 years of the Order of St John New Zealand, 1885-2010 / Graeme Hunt.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 309-329) and index.

Foreword / by Sir Anand Satyanand -- Author's note -- 1. Holy Land heritage -- 2. An imperial first -- 3. A national identity -- 4. War and peae -- 5. A priory is born -- 6. Post-war challenges -- 7. The power of one -- 8. Provincialism returns -- 9. The future of St John -- Afterword -- Appendicies: -- A. Chronology of the Order of St John (c.1080-2009) -- B. Brigade strength (1892-1987) -- C. Volunteer strength (1987-2008) -- D. Motor ambulance statistics (1915-2008) -- E. Governance and executive (1885-2009) -- F. Chairman of centres (1885-1987) -- G. Officers in charge of brigade districts (1903-1987) -- H. Chairman and principal officers of regions (1987-2009) -- I. Lifesaving medals (1886-2008) -- J. Grades, insignia and other medals of the order-- K. Ceremonials of the Order of St John -- L. Priory library -- M. Roll of the Order of St John in New Zealand (1895-2008).

First to Care is the most comprehensive history written of the Order of St John in New Zealand. It unearths new information about the founding of the St John Ambulance Association in 1885, the creation of its twin arm, the St John Ambulance Brigade, in 1892, and the development of what is now one of the country's leading not-for-profit organisations. Richly illustrated with over 250 photos and illustrations, this is a readable social history that touches on many aspects of national life.