New Medical Centre in Masterton Promises Enhanced Healthcare

A new state-of-the-art medical centre is taking shape in Masterton, with plans to set a new standard of care for the community by late next year. The construction, located on the site of the former Masterton Hospital, has progressed rapidly, with contractors completing the timber frame of the administration block within just over three weeks.

The development follows the acquisition of the site earlier this year by Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua and a partnership agreement with the Masterton Medical Centre. The medical centre had been operating from temporary premises since 2014, following a fire at its previous location on Lincoln Road.

Vision for a Comprehensive Healthcare Hub

“This is just the start,” stated Raymond Hall, chief executive of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa Tāmaki Nui-a-Rua Settlement Trust. He emphasized the vision for the new facility as part of a larger campus, indicating that this is merely the first stage of what they hope will be a comprehensive healthcare hub. Hall expressed a desire to incorporate not only primary healthcare services but also community wraparound services in the future.

The new facility aims to enhance primary healthcare accessibility in Masterton and address existing health inequities. Hall noted, “Having appropriate, culturally-based healthcare services is incredibly important for our people.” He highlighted the necessity for healthcare services that the community can access comfortably and confidently.

Bob Francis, chair of the Masterton Medical Centre’s board, acknowledged the considerable groundwork involved in developing a model of care that will serve the community effectively. He praised the staff, particularly general manager Robyn Wilson, for their efforts in shaping the accessibility and treatment processes within the new facility.

Rapid Construction and Future Plans

Francis also commended the construction team for their impressive progress, saying, “The speed of it’s been amazing, really.” He credited the support from key contributors like David Borman, who played a significant role in advancing the project.

Russell Hall from Concept Construction, the project’s lead contractors, indicated that the site work had progressed to the point where concrete could be poured for the main public area. He anticipated a noticeable increase in activity as this milestone was reached.

This year has been particularly busy for Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, with the medical centre project being just one aspect of their efforts. In addition to the healthcare development, the iwi’s commercial arm has secured deals concerning commercial land in Carterton and school sites in Masterton, aiming to generate positive commercial returns while also fostering environmental, social, and cultural outcomes for local families.

As the new Masterton Medical Centre continues to take shape, it holds the promise of transforming healthcare delivery in the region, ensuring that the community has access to high-quality services tailored to their needs.