08 Sep 2026
1 month ago
519 views
Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced a $740 million state highway renewal programme for the upcoming summer, funded by the National Land Transport Fund, aiming to improve road safety, reliability, and longevity across New Zealand. This investment is part of a record $2.15 billion allocation for state highway maintenance and renewals from 2024 to 2027, emphasizing the government's priority on maintaining existing infrastructure to deliver better value and reduce costly reconstructions. The programme includes extensive resurfacing, pavement rehabilitation, and safety upgrades, with recognition of the essential work by roadworkers despite potential short-term disruptions.
28 Aug 2026
1 month ago
486 views
The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) in New Zealand has accelerated injured individuals' return to work and community through a renewed focus on rehabilitation, including reintroducing one-on-one case managers. Since launching the Turnaround Plan seven months ago, long-term claims have decreased by four percent, improving outcomes without reducing support for those with serious injuries. ACC emphasizes sustainability for the future while maintaining comprehensive support, with ongoing progress reported monthly on their website.
13 Aug 2026
2 months ago
605 views
ACC has reestablished specialist Traumatic Brain Injury Residential Rehabilitation services in Canterbury and West Coast, ending a gap since 2020 that forced patients to travel far for care. Hauora Ability Services will deliver these services at The Granada Rehabilitation Centre in Christchurch starting July 2026, improving accessibility and client outcomes. This investment enables smoother recovery transitions, allowing clients to receive timely support close to home and maintain connections with family, community, and employment.
02 Jul 2026
3 months ago
762 views
Defence veterans who served in maritime security operations around the Middle East and East Africa will receive health, rehabilitation, and financial support for deployment-related conditions, covering service periods from 1991 to 2026. Their efforts in disrupting drug smuggling and protecting shipping routes have been crucial to New Zealand’s regional security and economic prosperity. Veterans Minister Chris Penk emphasized the government’s commitment to valuing and supporting veterans’ wellbeing now and in the future.
15 May 2026
5 months ago
939 views
Waikato Hospital has opened ten new forensic inpatient beds to improve access to specialist mental health support, addressing growing demand within the corrections system where mental health needs are high. This expansion is part of a $51 million government investment that also includes community-based step-down beds, wrap-around support services, and workforce development to enhance treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration. The initiative aims to ensure patient and public safety by providing adequate care and strengthening pathways from inpatient care to community reintegration.
09 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1230 views
A new 30-bed specialised spinal rehabilitation centre will be built at Manukau Health Park, replacing the outdated 20-bed Ōtara Spinal Unit and expanding rehabilitation capacity to improve patient care and ease pressure on Middlemore Hospital. This $128.5 million investment includes refurbishing Middlemore Hospital’s adult rehabilitation ward, resulting in a total of 58 rehabilitation beds to meet rising demand through 2040. The modern facility will feature enhanced therapy spaces, integrated clinical services, and improved patient access, reflecting a patient-centred design aligned with the new Model of Rehabilitation.
27 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1271 views
New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) has achieved its strongest rehabilitation performance in over a decade, reducing the growth rate of long-term claims and helping injured New Zealanders return to work and independence faster. This improvement follows a government-mandated Turnaround Plan focused on client-centered care, lasting recovery, and organizational reset, reversing previous increases in long-term claim growth under the Labour government. While progress is evident in the latest public report, the government acknowledges more work is needed to ensure consistent support for claimants and build a better future.
11 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1237 views
The New Zealand Government has successfully improved pothole repairs on state highways, with around 98% fixed within 24 hours each month since July 2024, meeting or exceeding set targets. This progress is supported by a dedicated $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Fund over three years, focusing on extensive road rehabilitation, resealing, and drainage maintenance to reduce pothole formation. These efforts have enhanced road safety and reliability, with ongoing maintenance programs and public reporting encouraged to sustain improvements.
11 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1116 views
Minister Scott Simpson thanked outgoing ACC Chief Executive Megan Main for her leadership since 2021, highlighting her extensive public service experience and focus on improving client outcomes. Megan Main chose not to renew her contract after four years, during which she worked to strengthen service delivery amid significant organizational changes. The ACC Board will soon begin recruiting a new Chief Executive to continue restoring the Scheme’s commitment to fast and efficient rehabilitation for injured New Zealanders.
15 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1099 views
Wellington Regional Hospital has implemented a new stroke pathway that accelerates rehabilitation and improves patient outcomes by providing coordinated assessments within 72 hours to determine the best recovery setting. This approach has reduced hospital stays, shortened waiting times for specialist rehabilitation, and increased access to care, including more home-based rehabilitation. The pathway enhances communication, expands capacity, and supports stroke patients in regaining independence and living healthier lives.