Northland's first private cancer treatment clinic was officially opened in Whangārei on Friday.
Canopy Cancer Care chief executive Ben Harman said it would offer a wide range of services, delivered by a dedicated team of local oncologists, sparing patients the often long journey to Auckland.
"Patients shouldn't have to travel huge distances to access their cancer care, which is why it was so important to establish a clinic in Whangārei," he said.
"For many patients, the long journey and time away from family and friends while they are being treated is really hard. We believe this new clinic will make a huge difference to local patients and their families for many years to come."
Northland DHB chief executive Dr Nick Chamberlain said the clinic may reduce the pressure on publicly-funded services a little, but more importantly it reduce travel time for those who were currently going to Auckland for private treatment.