He Waka Tapu has launched a $1 million community fundraising campaign to help pay for a purpose built health and wellbeing hub in east Christchurch, with construction on the approximately $11 million development already underway.

The facility, called Project Hauora, is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months and will expand Te Aranga Health Clinic, He Waka Tapu’s general practice, from six consultation rooms to 10.

The clinic currently delivers almost 40,000 GP and nursing appointments each year and is operating at capacity. About 79 percent of its enrolled patients are classified as high needs.

He Waka Tapu supports more than 10,000 people each year through primary healthcare, mental health, addiction and family support services. The organisation has operated for more than 30 years.

The development has received no direct Government capital funding towards the build. He Waka Tapu must raise $1 million through community donations, philanthropic support, grants, corporate partnerships, fundraising events and individual giving.

The new facility will include expanded general practice and nursing services, dedicated mental health and wellbeing spaces, improved clinical facilities and physical therapy services. A second floor will house office space for frontline social service staff. The building will also create space for future diagnostic and specialist services.

As a Very Low Cost Access practice, Te Aranga Health Clinic provides subsidised healthcare in a community where many people face barriers to accessing medical care. He Waka Tapu said the expansion would allow that model to continue while extending opening hours so patients can be seen before or after work and school.

He Waka Tapu Chief Executive Toni Tinirau said the project was about equitable access to affordable healthcare.

“For 30 years, He Waka Tapu has stood beside our communities, providing care that is grounded in connection, compassion and kaupapa Māori values. Project Hauora is an investment in the future of our whānau, ensuring more people can access affordable healthcare and wellbeing services close to home, in an environment designed to meet their needs and support their aspirations.”

Tinirau said the hub would ease pressure elsewhere in the health system.

“Every day we see people delay seeking healthcare because of cost or because they simply can’t access an appointment when they need one. Project Hauora will allow us to care for more whānau through our low-cost healthcare model, extend access to services, and intervene earlier, improving health outcomes while easing pressure on Christchurch Hospital’s Emergency Department and after-hours services.”

Tinirau said the campaign was an opportunity for the wider community to shape the future of healthcare in Canterbury.

“Project Hauora belongs to our community. To bring this vision to life, we need to raise $1 million through community support. Every contribution, whether large or small, brings us one step closer to creating a health and wellbeing hub that will serve generations of whānau.”

The campaign will be launched publicly at He Waka Tapu’s 30th anniversary gala on Saturday 3 October at One New Zealand Stadium. Funds raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, auctions and donations on the night will go towards the target.

More information is available at hewakatapu.org.nz.