Our current mental health facilities have long been recognised as needing improvements. Construction of a new purpose-built facility commenced in February 2023 and is progressing well.

The new building will be welcoming, warm and make good use of natural light in order to enhance the therapeutic nature of activities. This new model of care will be culturally appropriate and offer flexibility for those in significant distress. The approach emphasises out-of-hospital prevention, promotion and community approaches, consistent with contemporary models of care.

The new unit will have 28 beds plus 2 rooms for those needing a short-term stay. Later there is provision for four to eight beds to be added.

The design of the new building takes its inspiration from the nearby mountain ranges, the Tararuas and the Ruahines. The wooden interior ceilings are high and shaped to reflect the influence of this landscape.