The New Zealand Resuscitation Council is deeply saddened to share the passing of Dr Tonia Nicholson (22 June 1968 - 16 July 2026). Tonia died peacefully on 16 July 2026, far too young aged 58.

Tonia was a dedicated and esteemed member of our Council for more than 20 years. She represented the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) and served on our Executive Committee in several roles, including Secretary and Treasurer.

We wish to acknowledge Tonia’s dedication to lifesaving science in New Zealand and Australia through the ANZCOR Adult Advanced Life Support (ALS) Guidelines, and globally through her work with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR). As a member of the ILCOR ALS Task Force for more than a decade, Tonia helped place New Zealand on the world stage and advanced evidence-based resuscitation practice at the highest level. These achievements reflect not only her expertise, but also the generosity with which she gave her time to improve outcomes around the world.

The Council recently recognised Tonia with the Sir David Hay Medal, our highest award for resuscitation and emergency care. Established in 1999, the medal honours an outstanding or lifelong contribution to resuscitation and emergency care in Aotearoa New Zealand. Tonia joins a distinguished list of recipients and will be remembered for her dedication to saving lives.

Tonia was the dearly loved wife of the late Grant, cherished mum of Lily, Lani and Tom, daughter of Sue and Archie, and sister of Jennifer. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

A funeral service to celebrate Tonia’s life will be held at Seddon Park Funeral Home, 49 Seddon Road, Hamilton, at 1.30pm on Friday, July 24.