Planning ahead for growth

The Waikari Health Centre is expanding, all thanks to the initiative and dedication of its local community.

Work is underway and it’s not costing ratepayers or Council a cent, despite the Centre being a council-owned building.

Practice Manager Wendy Allan said funds for the building expansion have been raised from financial reserves that have been growing over time, and with staff numbers increasing from 10 in 2020 to 14 currently with a corresponding increase in full time employment, the time to expand really was now.

Works are underway to build a new staffroom, meeting room, manager’s office and nurse administration room. The current staffroom will become the phlebotomy room and minor surgery room, and Allan’s office will return to its original use as a consultation room.

Allan said the focus of Waikari Health Centre Ltd (WHCL) is to offer as many services to the community as possible, locally. Flow of patients is also important, as is ensuring people have the minimal possible wait time for an appointment and don’t spend too long in the waiting room.

“These are the main reasons we are undertaking this work,” she said.

Plans have been progressing since last year, the extensions were first discussed between Waikari Health Centre Ltd and Hurunui Community Committee in August 2025, when a deputation was made to the Committee.

A building consent was applied for by WHCL in February 2026 and the building plans were presented to the Committee. The plans and consent application were then reviewed by full Council, and consent was granted in May.

The build is being undertaken and managed by local building company High Country Homes Canterbury.

Mayor Marie Black said Waikari Health Centre’s upgrade demonstrates its strong focus in achieving quality health services for in the community, and praised all those involved for their commitment and leadership.

She added that the works at the Waikari Health Centre aligns perfectly with Hurunui District Council’s strategic intention of enabling communities across Hurunui to build self-reliance.

“The Waikari Health Centre is leading its own outcomes,” said Mayor Black.