Health & Wellbeing

* 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

Southlanders can celebrate this weekend after news from the new Health Minister Simeon Brown that the Dunedin Hospital rebuild is back on track. Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark was invited to the meeting to hear the news this morning with Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher, Invercargill MP Penny

* Shane Reti demoted as Health Minister, falling from fourth to ninth in rankings. * Simeon Brown takes over health portfolio, aiming to improve healthcare access for Kiwis. * Prime Minister Luxon focuses on economic growth with several other cabinet role changes. In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has demoted

* Matt Russell praises committee for visiting regional aged care providers in New Zealand. * Presbyterian Support Southland faces funding shortfalls, rising care needs, and aging facilities. * Growing dementia care demands prompt calls for major changes in the aged care sector. Presbyterian Support Southland (PSS) Chief Executive Matt Russell expressed his appreciation