Maniototo celebrates
THE hard work of Maniototo residents was acknowledged by the Health Minister and community leaders at yesterday’s opening of the refurbished Maniototo Hospital in Ranfurly.
More than 100 residents were present as the multimilliondollar project was officially signed off by hospital leaders and Health Minister Dr David Clark.
The $7 million refit includes 29 new beds and a transformation of existing resthome facilities into a medical centre and community services facility.
The Government granted $1 million for the project, following a preelection funding pledge from former Labour leader Andrew Little.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who travelled to the Maniototo last April for the funding announcement, was also invited but unable to attend.
Other contributions included $2 million from the Maniototo Community Board, to be indemnified by ratepayers.
The Otago Community Trust granted the project $500,000 alongside local Lions groups, who donated $250,000.
An amount of $2.5 million was paid through hospital reserves.
Dr Clark paid tribute to the Maniototo community during his address to residents.
‘‘It’s pretty special to celebrate the efforts of a community who have come together to make real a dream of providing quality health services for their community.
‘‘It’s wonderful to see your vision come to fruition.’’ Speaking to the Otago Daily
Times, Health Services Ltd chairman Stuart Paterson said the new facility sets a benchmark.
‘‘We’ve got a great service here now,’’ he said.
‘‘We’ve got a helicopter that can get here fairly quickly. We would compete with anywhere in New Zealand in terms of health facilities now.’’
Central Otago mayor Tim Cadogan said the opening ‘‘meant a lot of things on a lot of levels’’.
‘‘As people age, healthcare becomes increasingly important.
‘‘This facility is integral to the continued growth and development and livability of the Maniototo.’’