Diagnostic breast service boosts the battle against breast cancer
A newly developed facility, renamed as Kia Ū Ora – Waitematā Breast Service, was opened today at North Shore Hospital to improve access and health outcomes for patients.
The service will provide a world-class level of assessment, diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment for people with breast cancer and breast disorders.
Breast Cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for women in the Waitematā DHB catchment which has the largest population of any DHB in the country.
Patients have previously attended various appointments at a number of different locations across the DHB during the course of their diagnosis,
treatment and post-operative care.
“This co-located approach will be hugely convenient for our patients and will, in certain cases, mean various needs can be met on one day and in one place,” said Waitematā DHB CEO Dr Dale Bramley.
“Most importantly, it will contribute to improved diagnosis and treatment times – helping us make a dramatic difference in the lives of our patients, their families and whānau.”
The modern new unit occupies a vast ground floor space that has been completely redeveloped since its previous occupants were relocated to upgraded premises elsewhere.
It includes additional ultrasound and mammogram capability – as well as extra consultation rooms in a reconfigured and refurbished easy-to-access premises.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is a major supporter of the project and had representatives present during today’s opening.
“Our $1 million contribution towards Kia Ū Ora is recognition of just how important this service is,” said Breast Cancer Foundation NZ chair Justine Smyth.
“It’s crucial that everyone who is referred by their GP to the service is seen quickly so that any breast cancer found can be treated as early as possible, giving the best chance of survival.
“Going through a cancer assessment is hugely worrying and women shouldn’t have to face unnecessary delays."
Attending the opening are Waitematā DHB CEO Dr Dale Bramley, Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand board chair Justine Smyth, Waitematā DHB board chair Professor Judy McGregor, Dr Susan Gerred.
Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
Resin Workshop - Sat 14th March - Browns Bay
Details & bookings: resinworx.co.nz...
Join one of our Resinworx Workshops and dive into the amazing world of resin creativity! Catch the Early Bird Price!
# All materials supplied
# Create cheeseboards and more
# Multiple project options to choose from
# Perfect for beginners and anyone wanting to truly understand resin so you can confidently continue at home
# Enjoy a discounted first order with Resin and More NZ
You’ll learn everything you need to know, working with glitters, metallic powders, pastes, and tints, using a high-quality product. If you want a solid foundation in resin for future projects, this is the session for you.
Special discount for previous Resinworx participants (contact Philip)
Images shown are examples from previous participants’ creations.
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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