Drury hospital wins support but ‘devil is in the detail’

Franklin ward councillor Andy Baker says there is both excitement and caution as plans progress for a new hospital in Drury, a project he describes as vital but long overdue.

On October 10, Health Minister Simeon Brown said Health New Zealand (HNZ) is calling for expressions of interest from landowners for a suitable site for a new hospital.

He said it marked “a major milestone in expanding health infrastructure to meet the needs of Auckland’s growing population.”

“South Auckland is one of our fastest-growing communities, with significant health challenges,” Brown said.

“A new hospital in the south will help ensure Kiwis get timely, quality healthcare.”

The chosen site will need easy access to key transport routes, including SH1 and Waihoehoe Road, to support patients, staff, and visitors.

Local councillor in favour

“Everything in healthcare is never enough or soon enough, so while it could have happened sooner, we need to be thankful it’s finally moving ahead,” Baker told the Franklin Times.

“But the devil is in the detail.”

Baker said the location makes sense given Drury’s growth and transport links.

“It’s serving an area far wider than Franklin, so proximity to a rail station, State Highway 1 and other major arterial roads should be key considerations.

Drury will in time become the largest urban area in the Franklin area, so we need to look at the future, not just what exists now.”

He hoped the new facility will provide services that ease pressure on larger hospitals.

“It’s important we give our communities closer access to cancer treatment, paediatrics and oncology – the things we currently have to travel long distances for.

“A good number of beds is important, as is the opportunity to take advantage of having Fisher & Paykel Healthcare nearby.”

Community Poll supports location

A Franklin Times community poll drew more than 400 responses, with 82 per cent supporting Drury as the preferred hospital site and 18 per cent opposed.

Health New Zealand has confirmed it is seeking land in Drury for a large-scale health precinct to serve the Franklin and southern Auckland region.

The process is being managed through a government procurement round that closes on November 6.

HNZ’s Regional Head of Infrastructure Northern Chris Cardwell said Drury aligns with projected population growth and future infrastructure investment.

“The area is anticipated to see significant urban development, with tens of thousands of new homes planned, making it a central point for future healthcare needs.”

It comes as Middlemore Hospital already serves a large and diverse population of over 300,000 across South Auckland.

“Demand on the hospital continues to increase, and its current infrastructure is under significant pressure,” Cardwell said.

Cardwell said a separate, new urban ambulatory hub is also planned for northern Waikato, offering outpatient and day-surgery services closer to home and reducing pressure on major hospitals.

“While it is not a full-service hospital, the hub will provide a range of outpatient services and support the overall network of care in the region.”