15 Jul 2026
3 months ago
863 views
The New Dunedin Hospital’s inpatient building has begun vertical construction with the installation of structural steel, marking significant progress on the project after contract signing and site preparation. The 11-level facility, designed to improve patient care and flow, involves extensive fabrication and transport of over 15,200 steel pieces by New Zealand companies, supporting local jobs and the economy. Scheduled for completion in late 2030 and operational by 2031, the hospital will serve Dunedin and the wider Otago and Southland regions for generations.
14 May 2026
5 months ago
936 views
A new pharmacist role in Dunedin Hospital’s Emergency Department has improved patient flow and safety by taking medication histories, reviewing medicines, and identifying issues early, saving doctors up to 20 minutes per patient. This role enables faster, more accurate clinical decisions and allows doctors to focus more on patient care rather than paperwork, enhancing efficiency across the hospital. Positive feedback from ED doctors highlights the role as a game changer, particularly for patients with complex medication needs, demonstrating the benefits of targeted workforce initiatives.
02 May 2026
5 months ago
1052 views
Dunedin Hospital has installed a new $4.3 million next-generation Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine, enhancing precision cancer treatment with targeted radiation that minimizes damage to healthy tissue. The advanced technology allows clinicians to treat multiple tumors simultaneously, reducing treatment times and enabling therapies not possible with older models. This upgrade is part of a nationwide effort to improve cancer care access and outcomes, providing patients in the lower South Island with modern, high-quality treatment closer to home.
14 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1457 views
Dunedin Hospital’s new $2.4 million Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) is now fully operational, providing faster assessment and earlier treatment for patients with acute surgical conditions, thereby reducing emergency department wait times. The SAU, staffed by experienced nurses and supported by surgical specialists, operates 24/7 and enables prompt interventions, improving patient flow by admitting directly to surgical wards or discharging with clear plans. Since its trial in December 2025, the unit has treated over 630 patients, demonstrating significant improvements in timely care and receiving positive feedback.
02 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1927 views
Health Minister Simeon Brown honored Dame Karen Poutasi for her extensive contributions to New Zealand's health system and public sector. Dame Karen held senior health roles, including Director-General of Health for 11 years, Chief Executive of NZQA for 14 years, and Chair of Health New Zealand, significantly improving health outcomes. Her leadership and expertise left a lasting legacy, and the government extended condolences to her family and friends.
21 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1181 views
The New Dunedin Hospital project has completed pile capping for the inpatient building, marking a major construction milestone and enabling progress to substructure work. Construction is advancing with the formation of basement and ground-floor slabs, preparation for steel framework installation, and coordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The project supports local employment and businesses, with over 900 jobs expected at peak construction and significant economic benefits for the Otago and Southland region.
08 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1235 views
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey visited Dunedin Hospital to celebrate the addition of peer support workers in the Emergency Department, emphasizing the benefits of having individuals with lived experience to support those in mental health crisis. The service, already implemented in five other major hospitals, aims to provide individuals with a sense of connection, support, and improved access to ongoing care. The expansion of peer support services across New Zealand is part of the government's commitment to strengthening the mental health workforce and improving crisis response for individuals seeking help.
19 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1421 views
Health Minister Simeon Brown announced the signing of the contract with CPB Contractors Limited for the construction of Dunedin Hospital’s new inpatient building. The $1.88 billion New Dunedin Hospital program is New Zealand’s largest health infrastructure project, providing economic benefits and over 900 jobs during construction. The project, set to be completed by 2031, aims to deliver a safe, modern hospital that meets the region's needs, with CPB Contractors Limited overseeing the construction under close monitoring to ensure timely and within-budget completion.
03 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2382 views
The Government is focused on the delivery of Dunedin’s new inpatient building, with the establishment of a local engagement group to support the next phase of the New Dunedin Hospital project, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. “Work is back underway on the inpatient building at the former Cadbury site, marking a critical phase for this major health investment. I’m pleased to announce, alongside Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich, the formation of the Southern Engagement Group, which will help ensure the local community is kept well informed as this vital project progresses,” Mr Brown says.
16 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2558 views
Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced the appointment of a Crown manager to oversee the delivery of the New Dunedin Hospital Inpatient Building, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to ensuring the project is delivered successfully. “In late January, I confirmed the Government’s commitment to building the New Dunedin Hospital on the former Cadbury site – providing certainty to the people of Dunedin and the wider Otago and Southland regions,” Mr Brown says. “As part of that commitment, we are putting strong leadership in place to drive the next stage of this project.