New Zealand oncology unit cuts travel time for northland patients

It is expected to treat around 370 patients each year initially.

New Zealand has completed a new radiation oncology facility at Whangārei Hospital to reduce the travel time of Northlanders in need of the service.

"Many Northlanders face lengthy journeys to Auckland for radiation treatment, with return journeys ranging from 320 to 620 kilometres between Whangārei and Kaitaia,” Health Minister Simeon Brown said.

With the new facility, 80% of the 450 patients who travel to Auckland annually will be able to receive treatment in Whangārei, whilst those requiring more complex care will continue to access specialist services in Auckland when needed.

The service is expected to treat around 370 patients each year initially, with the capacity to grow over time.

“The $60.9m service is Northland's first Linear Accelerator (LINAC), enabling local delivery of radiation therapy for the first time,” Brown said.

The radiation oncology service includes a bunker for the LINAC, a second bunker for future demand, a radiation oncology planning CT scanner, and an expansion of the Jim Carney Cancer Treatment Centre.

It will be supported by a team of 35 staff, including 26 new positions. From 2027, it will also become a training placement site for radiation therapists.