Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton is delighted that the $4.4 million expansion
and refurbishment of the Waimarino Health Centre in Raetihi is now underway
with a sod-turning ceremony on site last week marking the start of the project.
Mayor Kirton said the start of construction was a significant milestone
for Raetihi and the wider Waimarino community following sustained local
advocacy to secure funding and get the project moving.
“This is a fantastic outcome for the community and everyone who has
worked so hard to make it happen,” he said.
“I would especially like to thank Waimarino Development Group
co-chairwoman Honey Winter, who joined me in calling on Health NZ to urgently
get the project underway last year."
That call for action was heard by Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown who
asked Health NZ to prioritise the work and involve key stakeholders in securing
a good outcome for the community.
“I want to sincerely thank Minister Brown for his leadership in getting
this long-awaited project happening and improving access to quality primary and
community healthcare in Ruapehu,” he said.
The redevelopment will more than double the size of the existing health
centre and create a modern, fit-for-purpose health hub bringing public, primary
and community health services together in one location.
Mayor Kirton said integrating these services would make it easier for
patients to access the care and support they need while enabling providers to
work more closely together.
“Having a range of health and social services operating from one modern
facility will make a real difference for local patients and whānau,” he said.
“It will improve access, strengthen coordination between providers and
help ensure people receive the right support closer to home."
Mayor Kirton said the benefits of the development would extend beyond
healthcare.
“Raetihi and the Waimarino area are among New Zealand’s most deprived
communities, with the highest possible decile 10 deprivation rating,” he said.
“A lack of access to integrated health and social services contributes
to wider challenges, including unemployment, mental health distress and
persistent health inequities.
This investment is an important step towards building a stronger and
more sustainable future for rural healthcare in our district.
This successful outcome shows what can be achieved when community
leaders, local government and central government work together with a shared
commitment to improving people’s lives.”
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