New mental health facility opens in Greymouth

Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has officially opened the Ngā Moana e Rua acute mental health facility at Te Nīkau Hospital & Health Centre in Greymouth. The project represents a $27 million investment from the government as part of a national Mental Health Infrastructure Programme involving 18 projects across the country.

The new facility replaces a unit that was over 40 years old. It features seven beds, including six single bedrooms, a low-stimulus room, therapy and treatment spaces, family areas, and outdoor courtyards. The facility was designed with input from clinical teams, community members, and individuals with lived experience to provide a more therapeutic environment.

According to Minister Doocey, West Coast mental health services have recently exceeded three key performance targets, including specialist service access and emergency department discharge timelines. The first patients are expected to be admitted to the new facility starting 16 September.