Check-up for new Auckland hospital

By REBECCA WALSH

Some visitors were interested in the architecture and technology at the new Auckland City Hospital.

Others joked that they might spend a bit of time there in the future and wanted a sneak preview.

About 4000 Aucklanders took up the chance of a guided tour through the country's biggest public building yesterday - just under a week before it opens to its first patients.

The tour - led by hospital staff and volunteers - took in a typical ward and the intensive care unit. Visitors also admired the view on to the central courtyard, which ensures that every patient room in the $200 million hospital has natural light.

Spokeswoman Brenda Saunders said the hospital had allowed for up to 8000 people yesterday but smaller numbers meant longer tours.

"It's been really great. We've had really good comments.

"People like the spaciousness of the rooms, the layout," Brenda Saunders added.

"A couple of people said they wanted to see it because they thought they might end up here one day."

The nine-level hospital is the equivalent of 16 rugby fields in size and has the capacity for 24 operating theatres and about 710 adult beds.

It will incorporate in-patient services from Green Lane, National Women's and Auckland hospitals.