Source: New Zealand Government
A $13.9 million investment to upgrade and expand the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Christchurch Women’s Hospital will provide a significant boost to neonatal care services for families across Canterbury and the wider region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“Every New Zealander deserves access to timely, quality healthcare, and that starts with supporting our most vulnerable patients – our newborns,” Mr Brown says.
“Christchurch’s NICU services have been under increasing pressure in recent years, with demand for care often exceeding available capacity.
“This investment will reconfigure the existing space to increase the number of neonatal cots from 44 to 54, meaning more babies will be able to receive the specialised care they need close to home.
“In addition to increasing capacity, the upgrade will enhance infection prevention measures, a vital part of protecting newborns and giving families peace of mind. The redesign will also ensure the facility meets the latest fire and safety standards, creating a safer, more modern environment for both patients and staff.”
Preparations for the upgrade are already underway, with careful planning to ensure all NICU services continue operating safely on the hospital campus during construction. Work is scheduled to begin next year and is expected to take around nine months, with the upgraded unit expected to be fully operational in early 2027.
“Improving New Zealand’s health infrastructure is a top priority for the Government, and this investment will make a real difference for families across Canterbury. More cots, better facilities, and stronger infection control measures mean that newborns get the care they need when they need it most.
“Our health system must keep pace with the growing needs of our communities, and projects like this show our commitment to supporting families and delivering timely, quality care for all New Zealanders” Mr Brown says.
