The Waimakariri District Council has confirmed a major investment in North Canterbury’s long-awaited after-hours medical facility, committing up to $3.5 million towards the project following a due diligence process.

The decision was made at an extraordinary council meeting, where elected members voted in favour of moving ahead with the project, which aims to transform healthcare access across the district.

Construction of the new facility is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with signage, fencing, and sod-turning set to take place shortly. The build is projected to take approximately 14 months to complete.

Mayor Dan Gordon said the investment represents a crucial step forward for the health and wellbeing of the community.

“This is an essential step forward for healthcare in North Canterbury. Our communities have long been waiting for access to urgent and after-hours healthcare, and now we can ensure it will happen.”

He described the decision as the result of years of effort by many committed individuals.

“I would like to acknowledge Dr Lorna Martin for her dedication to this project over many years. Although she has retired and is no longer directly involved, her unwavering support has been invaluable in helping us reach this point. I would also like to recognise Murray Tilyard’s personal commitment to this initiative. His passion and perseverance have been pivotal in bringing this project to fruition.”

As part of the agreement, the Council will have direct representation on the North Canterbury Medical Centre project group. Mayor Gordon and Deputy Mayor Neville Atkinson have accepted formal invitations from South Link Health to join the group, ensuring collaboration and oversight as the project advances.

The South Link Education Trust, which is partnering with the Council on the facility, will fund 50 percent of the construction through a bank loan. The Council’s loan will fund the remaining half. South Link will cover all loan repayments—including principal and interest—meaning no costs will fall on ratepayers.

South Link will also cover all due diligence expenses.

Once complete, the new medical centre will offer:

• Seven-day-a-week urgent after-hours healthcare

• General practice services

• Radiology services

• An onsite pharmacy

Located next to Rangiora Hospital and Health Hub, the facility is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services for residents across the district.

South Link Education Trust Chair and Chief Clinical Advisor Murray Tilyard welcomed the council’s investment.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Council on this vital initiative. North Canterbury urgently needs robust, seven-day-a-week extended primary health care services, and we are committed to delivering them.”

South Link Health Chief Executive Karl Andrews said the decision marked the official launch of the long-planned project.

“After facing several challenges—including Covid-19 delays, rising construction costs and commercial investment hurdles—progress will soon be visible, and our team is fully committed to seeing it through. We are grateful to the Council for its commitment to partnering with us.”

The project is seen as a major win for North Canterbury residents, who have long advocated for more accessible and reliable after-hours care.