Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has applauded the success of the Hapori Hauora Day at Taumarunui Hospital on Saturday (12 April 25), highlighting its impact on improving access to essential health services for local residents.

The community health event brought together a comprehensive range of health specialists and community service providers including cardiac screening, eye examinations, immunisations, skin lesion assessments, haemorrhoid banding, gall bladder and hernia consultations, cancer screenings, diabetes testing, oral health education, and vital social services amongst others.

Mayor Kirton emphasised how crucial such initiatives are for communities like Taumarunui, where many residents face financial challenges, limited knowledge about how to access medical care, or the need to travel long distances or endure lengthy waits to see specialists.

"Events like Hapori Hauora Day play a critical role in ensuring everyone has access to essential health services particularly as a range of barriers to accessing timely care can lead to health issues being neglected until they become severe," said Mayor Kirton.

"By providing these accessible health checks and specialist advice locally, we address immediate health needs, reduce the burden of travel and waiting times, and strengthen the overall well-being of our community.

It’s heartening to see so many residents benefiting from this event,” he said.

Mayor Kirton extended his gratitude to all health professionals, volunteers, and organisers whose dedicated efforts contributed significantly to the event's success.

"This initiative is a testament to the community's collective spirit and dedication to health and well-being.

We look forward to supporting similar valuable initiatives in the future," Mayor Kirton added.

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