Capturing whānau voice often comes with heartbreaking and frustrating stories. Last year, we heard from a whānau member undergoing dialysis treatment who faced significant challenges due to the lack of local facilities. He had to drive two hours each way to receive treatment, spending the entire day away from home. During the pandemic, it was just him, on his own, with whānau not permitted to accompany him.
It was with tears that the Board heard that a new dialysis unit would go ahead in Blenheim, providing life-changing support for local patients and their families closer to home. Because we know that this man was not the only one in his position.
It takes many to bring about change. The new four-chair dialysis unit is a true example of kotahitanga, bringing together Health New Zealand, Marlborough Primary Health, closely supported by local iwi, Te Kāhui Hauora, and Te Piki Oranga. It reflects a shared commitment to delivering services that are responsive and locally led.
The facility also highlights the generosity of the Marlborough community. A number of local charities and philanthropic trusts have stepped up to fund dialysis chairs, TVs, resuscitation kits, heat pumps, and other vital equipment. Contributors include the Care Foundation, Marlborough Hospital Equipment Trust, with other interest expressed by Rātā Foundation, Churchill Trust, Lotteries, and Marlborough District Council, which provided both a cash grant and a fee waiver for the resource consent.
The unit is expected to open in October 2025.
Read more here.