Expanded Nelson Hospital emergency department opens in NZ

The wing features four observation bays and an expanded medication zone.

New Zealand’s Nelson Hospital has opened its expanded emergency department, according to Health Minister Simeon Brown.

The new wing features four observation bays, one observation room, two isolation rooms, a dedicated triage area, and an expanded medication zone.

In addition, upgraded staff facilities include new write-up areas, bathrooms, and utility rooms.

The $6m (NZ$10.6m) expansion is part of the government’s $566.2m (NZ$1b) nationwide hospital infrastructure investment announced in Budget 2025.

The hospital will also receive a temporary inpatient ward under the ‘Rapid-Build Hospital Capacity Programme’.

The temporary facility will accommodate services whilst seismic strengthening work is carried out and provide additional beds until the new inpatient tower is completed, Brown added.

The hospital’s full expansion is expected to be completed in April 2026.

NZ$1 =$0.57