St John is encouraging Tauranga residents to get a free blood pressure check this weekend.

The free checks will be available at Brookfield, Gate Pa and Mount Maunganui New Worlds from 10am - 2pm on Saturday, May 12, as part of the Stroke Foundation's national campaign to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

Associate Minister of Health Jo Goodhew having her blood pressure tested.

St John team manager Ross Clarke says St John is delighted to be supporting the campaign and the free checks are a good opportunity for people to have a quick, painless check.

'We're all so busy with families, work, sport and other activities that it can be hard to make the time for something as simple as a blood pressure check. And yet it could end up saving our lives.”

Ross says it's easy for high blood pressure to go undetected and is encouraging people to come along on Saturday for a free test.

Information about blood pressure and other risk factors for stroke will be provided during the check, and people with raised blood pressure will be referred to their GPs for medical advice and treatment.

'The big thing is to know what your blood pressure should be, have it checked regularly, and remember that the lower your blood pressure the less likely you are to have a stroke.

'Come on people – I'll be having my blood pressure checked – why don't you join me.”