A ceremony was held today for the customary laying of a mauri stone to signal the beginning of construction of the new children’s hospital.

The ceremony was held at Wellington Regional Hospital. It was attended by DHB staff and Board members, Mark Dunajtschik – who has donated $50 million to the project and is building the new facility – Minister of Health Dr David Clark and kaumātua from Te Atiawa ki Pōneke, Te Atiawa ki Whakarongotai, Taranaki Iwi, and Ngāti Toa.

“Today represents a significant milestone for Wellington’s new children’s hospital,” says DHB Board chair Andrew Blair.

“Designers, architects, clinical staff, and members of our community have been involved in this project from the outset. They have provided valuable feedback on the building’s design and function, and the needs of patients and whānau who will use it.”

Construction company McKee Fehl is now onsite following the demolition of the old renal office and sports complex. Foundation work is expected to get underway this month.

The 7000-square metre, three-storey building will have 50 inpatient beds and is expected to open by early 2021.

“This new, purpose-built facility will allow us to provide high-quality care to our young patients – bringing inpatient services and outpatient clinics under one roof, and allowing for the integration of services.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to once again acknowledge the extraordinarily generous donation from Mark Dunajtschik. Without his donation, this facility would not have been possible.”

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