- Hon Simeon Brown
Work is officially underway on the Whangārei Hospital redevelopment, with the sod turned today on the site of the new acute services building and 158-bed ward tower, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
"Today marks a major milestone for Northland, as the Government continues to invest in the infrastructure Northlanders need to access timely, quality healthcare now and into the future," Mr Brown says.
"Much of Whangārei Hospital dates back to the 1950s and is no longer equipped to meet the needs of a growing population. We need facilities that support modern models of care and provide greater capacity."
The acute services building will include a significantly expanded emergency department, 10 operating theatres, and modern intensive care facilities.
The ward tower, which the Government committed to in Budget 2026, will provide 158 beds across four medical-surgical wards and an acute assessment unit, delivering a net increase of 53 beds for the campus.
"This additional capacity means more patients can be assessed and treated sooner, improving access to essential healthcare services across Northland.
"Delivering the ward tower alongside the acute services building will improve efficiency and accelerate the overall redevelopment programme.
"Together, the two buildings will support delivery of the Government's health targets, including shorter emergency department stays, faster access to assessment and treatment, and a better experience for patients and staff.
Budget 2026 also funds piling works for an additional ward tower in future, laying the groundwork for further expansion as demand grows while avoiding significant disruption to hospital services.
Mr Brown says the redevelopment is one of the most significant health infrastructure investments in Northland's history.
"This is about more than improving healthcare infrastructure. The redevelopment is expected to contribute around $233 million to Northland's GDP and support more than 2,700 full-time equivalent jobs through construction and associated industries.
"That means more local jobs, more opportunities for regional businesses, and a stronger Northland economy.
"As construction progresses, this investment will build confidence in Northland's future while delivering the modern hospital facilities the region needs."
