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Elevate Magazine
February 1, 2025

Rangiora Medical Centre Delays Frustrate Residents

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Photo Source: Pixabay

The long-awaited after-hours medical centre for Rangiora is still nowhere in sight, leaving residents exasperated. While approvals, funding, and community support have all been secured, construction has yet to start, meaning locals continue to face a shortage of urgent healthcare options.

Community Voices Discontent Over Delays


Jim Gerard, chairperson of the Rangiora-Ashley Community Board, expressed frustration over the ongoing delay of the after-hours medical centre. “There is no sign of anything, and it is really disappointing because it is a service North Canterbury really needs,” Gerard said.

The facility was first set to open in 2022 at the Rangiora Health Hub but remains unbuilt. While the delays were initially blamed on COVID-19, progress has stalled with no communication from South Link Health Group, the private provider behind the project.

“I just want to express on behalf of the community my disappointment at the lack of progress. The community had expectations which at this stage have not been delivered,” Gerard added.

Government Officials Acknowledge Delays and Lack of Action


Waimakariri MP and Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey
also voiced his concerns over the lack of action. “I will be raising my concerns with Health New Zealand / Te Whatu Ora,” he said. The Ministry of Health reached an agreement with South Link Health Group in 2021 to establish the after-hours facility.

This came after a petition was presented to the former Canterbury District Health Board in 2019, highlighting the urgent need for accessible medical care outside of standard operating hours. Despite these efforts, progress has remained stagnant.

Initial Promises for a Comprehensive Medical Facility Unfulfilled


The vision for a new medical centre in Rangiora was detailed in 2022 by South Link Health Group CEO Karl Andrews, who outlined plans for a facility that would include full radiology services—ultrasound, CT, and MRI scans—along with GP services, a pharmacy, and an urgent after-hours healthcare clinic.

The group merged two practices last year to “future-proof” operations to prepare for the facility’s construction.

Now known as Rangiora Medical, the practice continues to serve the community from its Good Street and Victoria Street locations.

Limited Options for After-Hours Healthcare in North Canterbury


The long-awaited after-hours medical facility is still nowhere to be found, leaving North Canterbury residents with few options for urgent care. Many must first reach out to their GP to consult with a triage nurse or turn to telehealth services, which frequently require out-of-pocket expenses.

The limited in-person alternatives include Durham Medical in Rangiora and Amberley Medical Centre, which both offer Saturday morning clinics. Ka Ora Telecare also provides phone and video consultations for some residents across North Canterbury.

Residents and Local Leaders Demand Action and Transparency


Frustration is reaching new heights in North Canterbury as residents and local leaders express growing impatience over the lack of a construction timeline. Community members are demanding that South Link Health Group provide updates and set a firm date for the facility’s start. South Link Health Group has not replied despite numerous requests for comment.

North Canterbury remains without an after-hours medical centre for now, leaving residents in a state of uncertainty about when or if the service will ever be realised.