The people of Patea will have access to regular doctors after Ngati Ruanui Holdings purchased the Patea Medical Centre.
The former owners of the centre — The Patea and District Community Medical Trust 2000 — struggled to locate a permanent doctor for the rural community since the last doctor left in June last year.
Ngati Ruanui Holdings chairwoman Debbie Ngarewa-Packer says the purchase is part of an overall economic investment strategy.
"We're investing in our people and the Patea community. This acquisition will provide health certainty and wellbeing for all residents of Patea."
She says a mixture of Ngati Ruanui doctors and locums will begin working in Patea, ensuring there is a permanent team of doctors providing back up and support.