Whangārei — June 4, 2026 — Construction of the new radiation oncology service at Whangārei Hospital has been completed, marking a major milestone for cancer care in Northland. Health Minister Simeon Brown announced that the facility will allow most patients to receive treatment locally, reducing the need for long journeys to Auckland.
Currently, around 450 Northlanders travel to Auckland annually for radiation therapy, with return trips ranging from 320 to 620 kilometres. The new service is expected to treat 370 patients each year initially, with capacity to expand over time. “Cancer treatment is challenging enough without the added burden of spending hours on the road, away from family and the comforts of home,” Brown said.
At the heart of the $60.9 million investment is Northland’s first Linear Accelerator (LINAC), enabling precise radiation therapy that targets cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The facility also includes a second bunker for future expansion, a radiation oncology planning CT scanner, and an expanded Jim Carney Cancer Treatment Centre with four additional chemotherapy chairs.
The service will be staffed by a dedicated team of about 35 professionals, including 26 new positions. From 2027, Whangārei Hospital will also serve as a training site for radiation therapists, helping build a sustainable local workforce.
Minister Brown emphasized that the initiative, championed by Whangārei MP Hon Dr Shane Reti, will improve access to timely cancer care while easing pressure on Auckland’s services. “We are focused on building the future of cancer care in Northland, ensuring patients and their communities have access to quality, modern treatment – now and for many years to come,” he said.
