Gunn, known for his work in New Zealand media, joins the health and wellness program AIA Vitality, which provides tools and incentives to support healthier living.
His appointment adds to the existing ambassador lineup that includes Ian Jones and Dame Valerie Adams.
Following a heart attack in 2017, Gunn reassessed his approach to health and well-being.
In an interview for “The Upside,” a content series developed with AIA and TVNZ, Gunn described the experience as a shift in perspective.
“My heart attack served as a wake-up call and made me reconsider what was important. A key part of this was thinking more about my physical and mental health and not taking anything for granted. I now try to do a few little things, often. That includes trying to include 10 minutes of mediation each day or a short jog (or perhaps more accurately a quick walk) around the block,” he said.
He also discussed the mental health challenges he faced after the passing of his mother.
“Connection is vital for all of us and especially when we face the loss of a loved one. There’s so much noise out there. People talking at other people. But the magic happens when we talk with other people. When we take the time to really connect with others. That’s when people feel heard and feel valued,” Gunn said.
Additionally, Gunn highlighted the broader impact of social isolation, pointing to loneliness as an increasingly critical health concern.
“I recently heard that loneliness is one of the fastest growing killers in the world. Loneliness! And I think we can do something about this,” he said. “We need to start spending time with people and connecting with people. I think a lot of our mental well-being could be made so much better if we just took the time to connect with people. I try to encourage people to ask others ‘How are you doing?” and then really listen to the answer. I believe that each of us have the ability in a day – in a moment – to be the best part of someone’s day. You might be the one conversation in the day that makes them think, ‘Somebody cares.’”
AIA NZ’s chief product and strategy officer, Alex Kühnast, said Gunn’s involvement reflects the insurer’s mission.
“The AIA NZ team is thrilled to have Jason onboard. He represents all of us – someone who is on a journey to become more aware of their health and the impact we as individuals can have on our own well-being. Our purpose at AIA NZ is to help all New Zealanders to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, and Jason is really living this,” he said.
