Cancer Society Opens New Centre in Queenstown for Community Support

On October 26, 2023, the Cancer Society inaugurated its new Queenstown-Tāhuna Centre, enhancing cancer support services in the region. Local resident Eva Boyer performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Remarkables Park, an initiative aimed at increasing accessibility and visibility for those affected by cancer in the community.

The centre, previously the site of Fierce Grace hot yoga studio, is strategically located beneath the Queenstown Medical Centre, adjacent to Unichem Remarkables Pharmacy, and near the charity’s second-hand CanShop. This prime location is crucial, as Craig Watson, head of cancer services at the Cancer Society, emphasized the importance of public transport accessibility. He noted, “Not everybody has a car, not everybody is wealthy in Central Otago. There’s a lot of people with a lot of need here.”

Meeting Community Needs

The new facility addresses a pressing demand, particularly given the notable rise in cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50 in the region. Watson stated, “The community couldn’t wait any longer for such a facility. So we had to stand up and put something together.” The centre was established in approximately four months, with funding from community initiatives, including a $4,000 contribution from Naylor Love and Cook Brothers through the recent Southern Swing golf series at the Arrowtown Golf Club. This funding has helped create a welcoming environment within the hub.

Watson expressed gratitude for the local support, noting, “Every dollar raised here literally goes back to make this place operate. We don’t get government funding, but we’re also proud of the fact we have community support — it’s huge, and we’re so grateful for that.”

Previously, the Cancer Society operated from a single office at Terrace Junction. The new centre features two private rooms for confidential discussions about issues such as wigs and prostheses, along with an open-plan area that accommodates four staff members. Watson highlighted the centre’s goal to expand services, mentioning plans to collaborate with additional professionals, including counsellors. “This will be more than just the Cancer Society’s hub; this will be a cancer hub for the community, too,” he stated.

A Resource for All

The Queenstown-Tāhuna Centre will also play a vital role in assisting migrants navigating the local healthcare system, which can often be unfamiliar and daunting. The centre aims to provide a supportive environment where individuals can access the resources they need during their cancer journeys.

The drop-in centre operates from Monday to Friday during standard business hours, with appointments available through the Cancer Society’s online portal. This new facility represents a significant step forward in improving cancer care and support for the Queenstown community, ensuring that essential services are both accessible and visible to those in need.