An estimated 2500 people showed up to protest proposed funding cuts to Oamaru hospital today.
Waitaki mayor Gary Kircher said he was very pleased at the community's support.
Marchers ranged from families to the elderly, which Mr Kircher said sent a message about the community's attitude to the local health service.He said they were very passionate about the primary level hospital, and even though it was a basic service, the community did not want any further cuts.
Mr Kircher said expecting residents to go to Dunedin for specialist care due to funding cuts was unacceptable.
Councillor Melanie Tavendale said the message to the Southern District Health Board was the community had built their hospital, fought for it, and were not about to let it go.
