- Hon Simeon Brown
- Hon Matt Doocey
People living in the Ruapehu district will have easier access to care as a result of the Waimarino Health Centre more than doubling in size, say Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey.
"It's a big day for the community with construction having begun today on the expansion and refurbishment of the Waimarino Health Centre in Raetihi," Mr Brown says.
"This will bring public, primary and community services together in one location and better support patients by making it easier for them to access the care they need in one modern and fit-for-purpose facility.
"The strong advocacy of Ruapehu District Council and local MPs Suze Redmayne and Carl Bates has contributed to this step forward in building the future of the health system in the district."
$4.4m is being invested overall in the redevelopment. The project includes a new 345sqm extension and refurbishment of the existing health centre.
Mr Doocey says the redevelopment is great news for people living in the rural Ruapehu district.
"We are focused on ensuring the one in five New Zealanders who live in rural communities can access the care they need," Mr Doocey says.
"With the expansion more than doubling the size of the current health centre and services working better together for patients, this is an important step in building the future of rural healthcare for the community.
"Today is a significant milestone, and I look forward to seeing it completed and making a positive difference for the community."
Construction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2027.
