HAMILTON — Forensic mental health services in New Zealand’s Midland region are set to receive a significant $51 million funding boost over the next four years, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey announced this week during a visit to Waikato Hospital.
The funding package includes the addition of 10 new acute inpatient beds at the Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre in Hamilton. The expansion aims to ease pressure on existing mental health facilities and enhance care for individuals involved in the justice system who require psychiatric support.
“This investment reflects our commitment to strengthening mental health services for some of our most vulnerable people,” said Minister Doocey. “It will ensure timely access to treatment and help reduce bottlenecks across the wider health and justice systems.”
The funding is part of a broader government initiative to address long-standing gaps in mental health infrastructure and improve outcomes for those with complex mental health needs within the forensic system.
Health officials say the additional beds and associated resources will support improved service delivery across the Midland region, which includes Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, and Tairāwhiti districts.
More detailed plans around staffing, timelines, and service enhancements are expected to be released in the coming months.
