Health board announces new look on the way for Waimarino Health Centre in Raetihi

Community input will be welcomed for a makeover of the Waimarino Health Centre. Photo / Supplied

A significant step forward has been taken in the expansion of the Waimarino Health Centre with the appointment of architecture and design company Jasmax Central.

The Raetihi centre, operated by Whanganui District Health Board, got the go-ahead from the Government at the start of the year for an upgrade and development of the facility and its services.

Jasmax will be responsible for concept and design and the Wellington company's representatives were in Raetihi this week.

An important part of the project is input from the community and Jasmax will undertake extensive consultation with iwi and other stakeholders.

Primary health practice Ruapehu Health will become part of the new centre in Seddon St.

Judith MacDonald, chief executive of Whanganui Regional Health Network (WRHN), which is the owner-operator of Ruapehu Health, said the appointment is great news for the community.

"I and the WRHN board are all very supportive of the progress being made in appointing an architect firm to work with the community to bring alive the aspirations for a wellness centre for the Waimarino," MacDonald said.

"We are excited at the calibre of the appointment and, in particular, the rich cultural lens they will contribute to the design of the facility."