Trainee Footcare Assistants Aim to Reduce Diabetes Amputations
Two Northland women train to become New Zealand's first footcare assistants, tackling diabetes-related amputations.
Many Struggle to Hear at Social Gatherings, Study Finds
A study reveals that many young adults have difficulty hearing in noisy environments, despite normal hearing in quieter settings.
H5N1 bird flu poses serious threat to native wildlife
H5N1 bird flu raises concerns for native wildlife as experts warn of potential catastrophic impacts.
Queenstown's Happiness House Seeks New Location
Happiness House, a beloved community centre in Queenstown, is looking for a new home after being forced to relocate.
Ninety kākāpō to be vaccinated against bird flu
The Department of Conservation will vaccinate ninety kākāpō, including new chicks, with a few left unvaccinated.
Victim Support reviews workplace culture amid bullying claims
Victim Support initiates a review following new allegations of bullying and an unsafe workplace environment, four years after previous investigations.
Trust stops smoking cessation efforts over vaping promotion
A trust has ended its initiative to help people quit smoking due to a stance against promoting vaping as a cessation method.
Pacific Women Call for Better Cancer Education in NZ
A study highlights gaps in awareness of gynaecological cancers among Pacific women in New Zealand.
Study Links Nitrate in Drinking Water to Premature Births
A new study links nitrate in drinking water to over 100 premature births annually in New Zealand.
Dunedin Hospital Construction Progresses with Steel Installation
The new Dunedin Hospital's inpatient building takes shape as steel structure is installed, marking a significant milestone in the project.
Health NZ: Hospital Stays for Homeless Mental Health Patients Prolonged
Health NZ reports that homeless mental health patients are often kept in hospitals longer than necessary due to lack of suitable accommodation.
Your Weekly Horoscope with Rob Brezsny
Discover your weekly insights with Rob Brezsny's Free Will Astrology. Get motivated and enlightened by astrology advice.
UK Opens Unique Hospital for Houseplants
The first hospital for houseplants has opened in Edinburgh, providing care, drips, and quarantine for indoor plants.
New Saliva Tests Diagnose Endometriosis in Days
Rapid tests EndoSure and Endotest promise quick endometriosis diagnosis, reducing average wait time from nine years to just days.
New Free Food Safety Course to Support Businesses
The Government launches free online food safety courses to alleviate costs for food businesses, enhancing hygiene training and consumer protection.
New Women’s Health Hub Launched for Better Health Access
The Women’s Health Hub offers reliable health information for women at different life stages across New Zealand.
Dunedin Hospital's New Cancer Treatment Machine Now Active
A new $4.3 million radiation therapy machine is now treating cancer patients at Dunedin Hospital, enhancing local treatment capabilities.
Concerns Raised About Dunedin's Wakari Hospital Before Issues Uncovered
Health NZ reported that inspectors visited Wakari Hospital more frequently than required before uncovering human rights issues.
Minister Considering Review of Cigarette Excise Tax
The associate health minister is contemplating a review of the excise tax on cigarettes amid concerns from experts.
GPs may raise fees due to funding changes
A significant number of GPs are seeking approval to increase their fees following recent funding changes, a representative group reports.
Nightcaps seeks funds to retain nurse at medical centre
Nightcaps Medical Centre needs community support to keep nursing services funded after March.
New Zealanders and the Rise of Edible Insects
For New Zealanders to embrace edible insects, they need to be familiar, tasty, safe, and affordable.
Health NZ Addresses Bowel Cancer Procedure Delays
Health NZ apologises to patients over the pause of bowel cancer procedures at Palmerston North Hospital.
Extra Temporary Beds Added to Hospitals to Meet Demand
An additional 81 beds have been added nationwide, with the total expected to reach 103 by mid-July to handle winter demand.
Appeal finds High Court erred in fluoridation ruling
The Health Ministry's appeal confirms councils must fluoridate, overturning a High Court ruling that deemed the order unlawful.
Waikato Hospital's new ward delayed until 2027
A planned 28-bed ward at Waikato Hospital will now be completed in 2027, health minister confirms.
Sewage Discharge Reported on Wellington's South Coast
Investigations are underway following another sewage discharge on Wellington's south coast, with the cause yet to be determined.
Waikato Barrister Challenges Insurer Over ADHD Diagnosis Claim
A Waikato barrister is suing Southern Cross for denying his ADHD diagnosis claim, alleging bad faith in the decision.
School Identifies Source of Mystery Odour Affecting Students
Whenuapai School identifies phenols as source of puzzling odour, impacting student comfort.
Labour to Abandon Controversial Disability Support Bill
Labour promises to scrap the Disability Support Services Bill after public outcry.
Debate Continues Over McDonald's Locations in Palmerston North
Residents in Palmerston North discuss the need for a fourth McDonald's amid health concerns.
AI Trial Aims to Reduce Mortality in ICU Patients
A clinical trial will explore the use of AI in intensive care units to decrease mortality rates for patients on life support.
Airborne Asbestos Found in Children's Play Sand
Airborne asbestos has been discovered in children's play sand, prompting the Health Ministry to reconvene its advisory group for assessment.
Palmerston North Gastro Services to Continue Despite Staffing Loss
Health NZ assures Palmerston North community on gastro services after losing its last gastro doctor.
AI Innovation Boosts Bowel Cancer Detection Efforts
AI trained on bowel screening samples could improve cancer detection accuracy.
Hospital Failure: Autistic Girl Sedated in Adult Ward
Reports highlight major failures in care for an autistic girl sedated in a Waikato Hospital adult ward. Family speaks out on trauma.
Rising Bowel Cancer Rates in 30s and 40s: What You Should Know
Discover the rising trend of bowel cancer diagnoses in young adults and what Aotearoa is doing to combat it.
Pasifika Women Face Breast Cancer Care Inequities
A researcher highlights inequities in breast cancer care for Pasifika women in New Zealand and calls for a culturally safe health system.
Study Reveals Lung Complications After Surgery: A Hidden Issue
New study uncovers lung complications post-surgery affecting thousands in NZ and beyond.
New Degree Proposal Aims to Ease Doctor Shortages in Regions
Blenheim GP advocates for a new medical degree to address rural doctor shortages in New Zealand.
Innovative OCD Therapy Offers Hope for Teens in NZ
A new intensive OCD therapy is bringing hope to young New Zealanders, with hopes for wider adoption in mental health care.
Health NZ Nears Completion on Medical Scanning Systems Fix
Health NZ is set to complete upgrades to medical scanning systems, addressing a surge in faults reported in recent years.
Understanding Equity vs Equality: Key Insights for NZ Educators
Learn the difference between equity and equality in education and health, and why it is vital for everyone in Aotearoa.
Health NZ Improves Funding Deal for GPs
Health NZ has increased its funding offer for GPs after feedback, including new rural funding options.
Diabetes Drug Funding Changes Call for Greater Equity
Experts stress the need for diabetes drugs for Māori and Pasifika communities. Health NZ faces objections on funding treatment changes.
New Medical Students Heading to Rural Waikato Communities
Waikato medical school students will be placed in regions needing doctors the most.
Health NZ Restructure Affects Hospital Staff in North Island
Health NZ plans cuts to clinical roles, but PSA warns of job uncertainty for affected staff.
New HIV Prevention Drug Shows 100% Success Rate in Trials
Lenacapavir, an innovative HIV-prevention injection, shows remarkable results in preventing new infections during trials.
Good News from Week 23: Rivers, Medicine and a Rediscovered Species
Europe's freer-flowing rivers, a pancreatic cancer pill trial, and a 'lost' species back on the radar — highlights from Positive News week 23.
Head Injury Group Says Combat Sports Reforms Move Too Slowly
A brain injury charity says proposed law changes for combat sports like Run It Straight don't go far enough to protect participants.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? Expert Weighs In
A dermatologist is backing daily hair washing for healthier locks. Here's what the latest advice means for your hair care routine in New Zealand.
Health NZ Staff Navigate Fresh Email Changeover Across NZ
Health NZ staff are updating email addresses again, with hospitals across New Zealand embracing the transition as part of a unified health system.
NZ Paramedics to Prescribe Medicines in ED Relief Win
New Zealand paramedics will soon have prescribing powers for certain medicines, easing pressure on emergency departments nationwide.
NZ Air Quality Improving Across the Motu, Data Shows
New data shows air quality is improving across New Zealand, with most sites meeting national standards for particulate matter pollution. Here's the good news.
GP Fees Frozen for 12 Months in New NZ Health Deal
Kiwi patients can breathe easier with a new in-principle agreement to freeze GP fees for 12 months. Here's what it means for New Zealanders.
Ashburton Birthing Unit Gets $3.2M Modern Upgrade
A $3.2 million upgrade is underway at Ashburton Hospital's community birthing unit, delivering modern maternity care for local mothers and babies.
NZ Health System Access for Disabled People: Change is Coming
A new report highlights barriers disabled New Zealanders face in healthcare — and calls for meaningful improvements across all health sectors.
5 Easy Ways to Prevent Mould in Your NZ Home
Mould in your home? The good news is that simple prevention strategies really work. Here's how to keep your NZ home fresh and mould-free.
Mobile Blood Drive Coming to Katikati War Memorial Hall
The NZ Blood Service Mobile Blood Drive will be at Katikati War Memorial Hall on 2–3 June — book your appointment online before you go.
Matahui School boy cuts hair after three years to support breast cancer trust
Nine-year-old Gaige Aitchison-Budd grew his hair for three years to donate to hair-loss sufferers, inspiring a school-wide breast cancer fundraiser at Mata
Breast Cancer Support Service praised for local, free-of-charge care
BCSST supports around 330 people a year across Western Bay of Plenty with free practical and emotional breast cancer care, funded solely by donations.
Pink Ribbon Breakfast Events to Raise Funds in Bay of Plenty
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ invites locals to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts this May.
Bay of Plenty invited to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts throughout May
Bay of Plenty locals are urged to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast in May 2026 to support Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, which receives no government funding.
Medical Centre Proposal Withdrawn from Waihī Beach Reserve
Proposal for a new medical centre at Waihī Beach has been withdrawn.
Waihī Beach medical centre reserve proposal withdrawn after public backlash
PHCL has withdrawn its proposal to build a medical centre on a Waihī Beach reserve after 56% of the 409 submitters opposed the planned location.
Western Bay council seeks feedback on Waihī Beach medical centre proposal
Western Bay council is consulting on a proposal to lease part of Beach Road Recreation Reserve at Waihī Beach for a new medical centre. Feedback closes 8 F
Proposal for New Medical Centre in Waihī Beach
A new medical centre is proposed for the Beach Road Recreation Reserve.
New Antenatal Classes Set to Start in Katikati
Free antenatal classes begin soon at Katikati Community Centre.
Free Antenatal Classes Starting at Katikati Community Centre
Katikati Community Centre is offering free antenatal classes from 20 January, covering pregnancy, labour and postpartum for new and expecting parents.
Waihi Beach community asked to have say on new medical centre proposal
Western Bay of Plenty District Council is seeking public feedback on a proposal to build a new medical centre on the Beach Road Recreation Reserve at Waihi
Community Feedback Sought on New Waihī Beach Medical Centre Proposal
Western Bay of Plenty District Council seeks public feedback on a plan to build a new medical centre on part of Waihī Beach's Beach Road Recreation Reserve
Te Puke Preschooler Blayde Arnold Fundraiser Aims to Support Medical Journey
Te Puke family launches Blayde's World fundraiser to support four-year-old with rare Emanuel Syndrome, aiming to fund intensive therapy for school readines
Grief Support Services Hosts Free Remembrance Picnic at Te Puna Quarry Park
Grief Support Services invites the community to a free Remembrance Picnic at Te Puna Quarry Park on 16 November to honour loved ones lost to suicide.
Waihī Beach Launches MOVE with You Challenge
MOVE with You challenge at Waihī Beach promotes fitness and mental health.
MOVE With You Waihī Beach Campaign Gets Community Moving in October
Waihī Beach's MOVE with You campaign runs until 2 November, offering free fitness challenges and community events including the popular Whānau Dash & Splas
Learn CPR this October at Katikati Community Centre
Katikati offers free CPR training sessions this month.
Call for Volunteers for Pink Ribbon Appeal in Bay of Plenty
Breast Cancer Foundation seeks volunteers for Pink Ribbon Appeal.
Volunteers needed for Pink Ribbon Street Appeal in Bay of Plenty
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is seeking Bay of Plenty volunteers for the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal on 17–18 October, with registrations closing 16 October.
Free CPR training on offer in Katikati this October
Hato Hone St John is offering free CPR and AED awareness training sessions at the Katikati Community Centre throughout October as part of Shocktober.
Katikati and Ōmokoroa Rally for Daffodil Day 2025
Katikati and Ōmokoroa communities turned yellow for Daffodil Day 2025, aiming to top the nearly $10,000 raised for the Cancer Society in 2024.
New Accessibility Trail Coming to Kaimai Trails
A new trail for adaptive bikes will improve accessibility in Katikati.
Katikati Community Gathers for Daffodil Day Fundraiser
Local family plants 3000 daffodils for Daffodil Day in Katikati.
Daffodil Day Preparation Blossoms in Katikati
Local volunteers gear up for Daffodil Day sales to benefit Cancer Society.
Cancer Society Supports Thousands in Bay of Plenty
Cancer Society aids over 37,000 clients in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
Daffodil Day 2025: Katikati Bulbs Growing for Cancer Fundraiser
Over 2,000 daffodil bulbs are growing beside SH2 near Katikati ahead of Daffodil Day on 29 August, raising funds for the Cancer Society.
Katikati Community Health Trust Holds Annual General Meeting
Katikati Community Health Trust hosts its AGM on 14 August at the Hone Hato St Johns Meeting Room, with BOP Care Co-ordination Centre's Judith Telford spea
Rūnanga Expands Free Health and Advocacy Services for Katikati Community
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua offers free health, advocacy and wellbeing services to all in Katikati, including a weekly Tuesday evening doctor clinic.
Ngāi Tamawhariua Rūnanga Opens Free Health Services to All
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua in Katikati offers free Tuesday evening doctor clinics and health services open to everyone across Western Bay of Plenty.
Ngāi Tamawhariua Hosts Free Whānau Hauora Day in Katikati
Ngāi Tamawhariua hosts a free Whānau Hauora Day at Katikati War Memorial Hall on 1 July, featuring health stalls, kai and family activities.
Katikati Lions Launch Kan Tab Initiative for Kidney Kids
Katikati Lions encourage locals to collect can tabs to support children with kidney disease.
Pink breakfast at Katikati Community Centre raises breast cancer funds
Over 40 people dressed in pink dined at the Katikati Community Centre on 30 May to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.
Fluoride to Be Added to Western Bay Water Supplies from June
Western Bay of Plenty District Council will add fluoride to Athenree and Wharawhara water supplies from June 2025, under a Director-General of Health direc
Comvita celebrates 50 years of natural health and wellness
Comvita, the Bay of Plenty natural health company founded by Alan Bougen and Claude Stratford, celebrates its 50th anniversary with pride in its pioneering
Hato Hone St John Named One of NZ's Most Trusted Charities Again
Hato Hone St John has been named one of NZ's Most Trusted Charities for the 12th time in the Reader's Digest Trusted Brand Awards, marking 140 years of ser
Waipuna Hospice Calls for More Funding Amid Challenges
Waipuna Hospice faces a significant funding shortfall and appeals for community support.
Waipuna Hospice Warns It Could Disappear Without More Funding
Waipuna Hospice CEO David Bryant warns the organisation could vanish from communities within years unless a critical Health NZ funding gap is addressed.
Trio of Active Seniors Break Gym Records in Katikati
Three local men prove age is just a number at Katifit gym.
Katikati Celebrates New Generation 4 Ambulance
Katikati welcomes a new ambulance, enhancing community safety.
Three 88-Year-Old Mates Keep Fit Together at Katifit Gym
Three 88-year-old Katikati mates — Nev Morrissey, Alan McCaughan, and Ross Watson — are regular gym-goers at Katifit, proving age is no barrier to staying
St John Katikati Gets New Gen4 Ambulance Funded by Community Trust
Katikati's Hato Hone St John station received a new Gen4 ambulance on 6 May, funded by the We Care Community Trust, boosting safety for staff and patients.
Pink Ribbon Morning Tea Hosted by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua invites the Katikati community to a free Pink Ribbon Morning Tea on 22 May in support of breast cancer awareness.
Pink Ribbon Breakfast Returns to Incredible Edibles in Katikati
Incredible Edibles in Katikati hosts its fifth Pink Ribbon Breakfast on 18 May, raising funds for the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation with food and garden tour
ACC Concussion Claims Rise as Awareness Grows in Community Sport
ACC concussion claims rose to 12,045 in 2024, with the Bay of Plenty recording 813 cases. New national guidelines aim to improve safety in community sport.
Katikati Budget Cooking Course Launches to Tackle Cost of Living
A new budget cooking course launching in Katikati will teach seasonal shopping, meal planning and clever techniques to help families manage rising food cos
Katikati Pool Upgrades for Summer 2025/2026
Improvements to Katikati's Dave Hume Pool will enhance accessibility and swimming lessons.
Walk 100km in April to Support Waipuna Hospice Free Palliative Care
Sign up to Walk for Waipuna this April — walk 100km in 30 days at your own pace to raise funds for free palliative care services in the Western Bay of Plen
Waihī Fundraising Challenge for New Ambulance Station
Community encouraged to raise $111,000 for local healthcare.
Katikati Celebrates Herb Awareness Month
Local community highlights benefits of herbs for health.
Community Event Encourages Awareness of Herbal Remedies
Local herb society promotes natural health solutions.
Waihi Launches 111 Challenge to Fund New Ambulance Station
Waihi locals are invited to join the 111 Challenge to raise $111,000 for a new ambulance station, with construction of the Johnston Street build already un
Katikati Herb Society Champions Herb Awareness Month 2025
The Katikati Herb Society is promoting Herb Awareness Month 2025, focusing on chamomile, karamu, greater celandine and globe artichoke amid rising interest
Katikati Medical Centre Closes Books to New Patients
Katikati Medical Centre has closed its books to new patients, citing chronic underfunding, six-week wait times, and GP burnout affecting practices nationwi
GP Funding Crisis Pushes More Practices to Close Books
NZ GPs warn of practice closures and closed books as funding pressures mount, with GenPro chairman Dr Angus Chambers calling for urgent action on primary c
Big Heart Appeal Returns for Heart Health Awareness
The Heart Foundation’s Big Heart Appeal aims to raise funds for heart research in New Zealand.
Waipuna Hospice Calls on Community for 2025 Hero Challenge
Waipuna Hospice is calling on Bay of Plenty locals to join its 2025 Hospice Hero Challenge in March, raising funds to support the terminally ill and bereav
Death Without Debt Workshop to Address Funeral Costs
A workshop in Ōmokoroa will educate on affordable funeral options.
Cow shed gym brings fitness to the Whakamarama countryside
Personal trainer Anneli Deschamps runs open-air fitness classes out of a converted cow shed on a historic Whakamarama farm, with horses as spectators.