Nelson Hospital Redevelopment Moves Ahead with Major Works Underway

The long-awaited Nelson Hospital Redevelopment has entered a critical phase, with enabling works now fully underway. Health Minister Simeon Brown confirmed that site preparation is in progress to pave the way for one of New Zealand’s largest regional health infrastructure projects.

A $1 Billion Commitment to Modern Healthcare

Announced in May as part of the Government’s $1 billion investment in hospital infrastructure, the redevelopment of Nelson Hospital is designed to replace outdated facilities and expand capacity for a region facing both population growth and an ageing demographic.

“For years, Nelson has struggled with facilities that no longer meet the needs of patients or health professionals. This redevelopment ensures we are building a hospital that is modern, flexible, and fit for purpose,” said Minister Brown.

The project will add 44 new points of care, bringing the total to 197 beds across the hospital, while introducing upgraded layouts and adaptable spaces tailored for efficiency and patient comfort.

Progress Already Visible on Site

Considerable groundwork has already been completed. This includes:

• Drone and site surveys to map and prepare the redevelopment footprint.

• Installation of modular buildings to temporarily accommodate staff, allowing space for the new inpatient building.

• Ongoing staff relocations across the campus to ensure minimal disruption to existing services.

Nelson will also pioneer a new modular temporary inpatient unit, part of the national rapid capacity expansion programme. This facility—New Zealand’s first locally built temporary inpatient ward—will provide 28 to 32 beds to maintain patient services during construction and address existing bed shortages. Procurement has drawn strong industry interest, with preferred suppliers now moving into the design phase.

Emergency Department Expansion Underway

Alongside the redevelopment, an $11 million expansion of Nelson Hospital’s Emergency Department is already in progress. Expected to be completed by early 2026, the expanded ED will bolster urgent and acute care services, helping relieve pressure during the main construction period.

First Stage of Redevelopment

The initial stage of the major redevelopment, scheduled to begin at the end of 2026 following the completion of enabling works, will deliver:

• A new inpatient building with 128 modern beds, incorporating an acute assessment unit, transit lounge, pharmacy, blood bank, and rehabilitation areas.

• A new Energy Centre to provide resilient and efficient infrastructure, supporting hospital operations well into the future.

• Refurbishments to the George Manson Building and the ground floor of the Percy Brunette Building, ensuring continuity of services and improved patient flow.

Certainty for the Nelson Community

Minister Brown emphasized that this redevelopment—promised for many years but repeatedly delayed—now has certainty under the current Government.

“Our Government is not only committing to the redevelopment but delivering it. Nelson families, patients, and frontline staff will soon have access to the world-class facilities they need and deserve,” he said.

With enabling works progressing smoothly, the Nelson Hospital Redevelopment stands as a milestone investment in regional health, setting a precedent for modern hospital design across New Zealand.