Hon Simeon Brown
Minister of Health

A new CT scanner is now operational at Wairarapa Hospital, marking a significant upgrade to diagnostic services in the region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“This $2.46 million investment will strengthen diagnostic services for Wairarapa, bringing faster, more reliable imaging closer to home and improving access for local patients,” Mr Brown says.

“The previous end-of-life CT scanner has experienced regular outages, disrupting care and delaying appointments. The new, modern scanner will significantly improve reliability and capability, providing faster imaging, better technology, and a more consistent experience for patients and staff.”

“The upgrade is expected to deliver around a five percent increase in output and productivity, supporting faster diagnosis, stronger cancer pathways, and better access to imaging for both inpatients and outpatients.

“It will also strengthen the wider regional diagnostics network, ensuring hospitals are better able to manage demand and maintain timely care across the region,” Mr Brown says.

Wairarapa MP Mike Butterick says this is fantastic news for Wairarapa.

“Having a new, modern CT scanner right here at Wairarapa Hospital means local families can access faster, more reliable diagnostic services close to home,” Mr Buttericks says.

“For a rural community like ours, access matters. This investment will make a real difference for patients and their families by supporting quicker diagnoses and giving people confidence that quality services are available in their own region.

“It’s great to see this level of investment in the Wairarapa region. Our community deserves modern, dependable health infrastructure, and this upgrade is a clear sign that regional New Zealand is a priority.”

Mr Brown says by investing in frontline infrastructure like this, we are ensuring regional communities like Wairarapa get the quality care they deserve.

“This is about putting patients at the centre of our health system – investing in the infrastructure and technology that supports frontline clinicians, strengthens regional services, and ensures communities like Wairarapa can rely on modern, quality care now and into the future,” Mr Brown says.

Home Page | Parliament | Previous Story | Next Story

Copyright (c) Scoop Media