Methanex NZ naming sponsor of new neonatal unit
Methanex New Zealand has announced it will support the new neonatal department at Taranaki Base Hospital for the next 10 years as its naming sponsor.
The unit, which will be known as the Methanex Neonatal Unit, is part of the second stage of the hospital redevelopment Project Maunga, which is due to be completed in 2025.
The $400 million redevelopment includes the construction of a 20,000-squaremetre six-storey building that will house acute clinical services such as the emergency department, the intensive care unit, maternity, primary birthing, neonatal, radiology, laboratory and a roof-top helipad.
A majority of the redevelopment is funded by Government but the Taranaki Health Foundation is raising $25 million for upgrades and enhancements.
Foundation general manager Adrian Sole said the foundation wanted the region to have a fully equipped neonatal department to make sure every newborn had the best chance of survival.
‘‘Methanex’s fantastic support will help us achieve that,’’ Sole said.
Methanex NZ managing director Stuart McCall said facilities needed to be built within the region to accommodate the growing needs of an increasing population.
‘‘And we see the work being done at the hospital as an integral part of ensuring the best healthcare for the people of Taranaki,’’ McCall said.
‘‘We’re supporting the Methanex Neonatal Unit for at least the next 10 years with our most significant social investment.
‘‘And while we’re able to support the unit with a financial investment, we see ourselves as a true partner and we’ll look to get involved with additional fundraising and volunteering where possible.’’
In the press release it was stated that with Methanex as a major partner it would help the neonatal unit boast stateof-the-art treatment equipment and transportation incubators, and enable it to better cater to multiple births, be more comfortable for the mother and family, and be larger than the current department.
Methanex is New Zealand’s only manufacturer of methanol. It has three production facilities – two at Motunui and one at Waitara Valley.