The site of the new Taranaki Cancer Care Centre has been blessed by local iwi.
The ceremony was attended by current oncology patients, Te Whatu Ora employees, representatives from the National Cancer Control Agency, Te Aho O Te Kahu, and leaders of the Project Maunga construction team.
Te Whatu Ora equity lead for Taranaki, Tamati Neho, says the blessing is important as it casts intentions.
“When you build a new house or whare, you make sure your foundations are solid. In a way, we’ve done just that for the Taranaki Cancer Centre with this blessing. We’ve made sure this facility has the best possible footing or base so that the mauri or life force from those who attended today will be able to organically feed into patients and the healing process.”
Te Whatu Ora interim hospital and specialist services lead -Taranaki, Gillian Campbell, says the blessing ensures the site is culturally ready for its new purpose. The new centre is scheduled to be completed in 2025 and will provide significant benefits to those in Taranaki diagnosed with cancer by integrating all cancer treatment services, says Gillian.
