Community
- Southern delegation delivered a petition with 34,000 signatures to Parliament today.
- Campaign leaders urge the Government to fulfil promises for the new hospital build.
- Retrofitting or downscaling the hospital would increase costs and delay completion.
The Save Our Southern Hospital campaign made a bold statement in Wellington today, as a Southern delegation presented a petition with over 34,000 signatures to Parliament, urging the Government to reverse cuts to the new Southern hospital. The petition, led by the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO), emphasises the importance of a modern facility for the South Island.
Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher, Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark, and other representatives joined the NZNO’s Linda Smillie in the delivery. The petition was ceremonially received by MP Rachel Brooking on the steps of Parliament at midday.
Mayor Radich reflected on the campaign's journey, stating, “We may have taken our message to the seat of power today, but this campaign is far from over.” He highlighted the critical role the hospital plays, not only for the South’s 350,000 residents but for training healthcare professionals across New Zealand.
“Decisions made now will have implications for decades,” said Radich, stressing the campaign’s key message: “Build it once, build it right.”
The event featured Cliff the Ambulance, a symbol of the campaign, which travelled the length of the South Island to raise awareness. The delegation sang Bill Acklin’s “Save Our Hospital” anthem, drawing attention to the issue.
Advocates argue the old hospital’s structural problems make it unsuitable for modern healthcare. Retrofitting or downscaling, as suggested by the Government, could cost more than the original plans, prolong the timeline, and add $110,000 per day in delays.
The hospital serves the largest region of any tertiary facility in the country. Campaigners warn that a downgraded hospital could severely impact health outcomes across the South.
Supporters can visit soshospital.nz to send digital postcards to Ministers, donate via Givealittle, or purchase campaign merchandise to support the cause.