Still work to do at new helipad site
NO date has been set for a new helipad for Maniototo Hospital but hospital leaders believe the site will be completed before the end of the year.
Plans are being finalised for the feature as work on the $7 million project in Ranfurly continues.
The landing pad will be located on an area of grass near the hospital park and entrance.
Maniototo Health Services Ltd general manager Geoff Foster said there was still work to be done at the spot.
‘‘We want to do it as soon as possible,’’ he said.
The ground will need to be raised to become level with the nearby concrete paving as a health and safety measure.
Lighting will be installed around the area once the ground has been filled and concreted.
Mr Foster said the plans confirmed massive improvements would be made from the existing landing area.
‘‘The old pad wasn’t a pad,’’ he said.
‘‘This will ensure we have the most modern and compliant helicopter landing pad for the future.’’
Ongoing works at the facility are expected to be completed in September, Mr Foster said.
The area will include a medical centre, dental rooms, Plunket rooms, Xray and visiting rooms.
The hospital officially opened last month.