Health & Wellbeing

* Emergency department at Southland Hospital is undersized and cannot meet patient demand safely * Over 1,000 patients have waited more than four months for surgical treatment since December * $8 million upgrade budget for ED and theatres is considered too low without compromise Southland Hospital’s emergency department is too small

* Southland mother Lynne Laverty encourages locals to host Pink Ribbon events this May. * Her personal journey highlights the life-saving importance of early breast cancer detection. * Pink Ribbon Breakfasts raise funds for research, education and support for breast cancer patients. A Southland mum is urging locals to take part in this

Gary Brecka is a human biologist, biohacker, longevity expert, and host of the "Ultimate Human" podcast theultimatehuman.com * Gary Brecka presents nine health tips combining science and biohacking on Rogan’s podcast * Topics include mental health, recovery, ageing, and the power of nature and community * Episode inspired strong

* Government reveals first national long-term plan to upgrade New Zealand’s public health facilities * More than $20 billion to be invested in new hospitals and infrastructure over several stages * Dunedin Hospital’s next construction phase confirmed, with tendering underway for mid-year restart New Zealand has released its first-ever long-term Health

* MENZSHED members gathered in Invercargill for a three-day national conference celebrating connection * Health expo brought vital services and support directly to members in an informal setting * Local attractions and Southland hospitality helped round out a successful and well-supported event MENZSHED NEW ZEALAND members from around the country came together in

* Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Campervan will visit Bluff and Invercargill this week. * Specialist nurses will provide free advice on breast health, screening, and risk reduction. * Early detection improves survival rates, with mammograms recommended from age 40. Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Campervan will be visiting Bluff and

* The Southern Charity Hospital was officially opened on Friday 28 February after six years of planning. * The hospital was inspired by Blair Vining’s battle with bowel cancer and healthcare inequities. * Fundraising efforts included selling bricks, with support from people across New Zealand. A long-awaited dream has become a reality

* The Government is increasing medical school placements to train more New Zealand doctors. * Funding will support graduate doctors and nurses in primary care settings across the country. * A new 24/7 digital healthcare service will improve access to medical consultations. The Government has announced a major package aimed at tackling