The Heart of Central Otago Healthcare
News & Stories
At Dunstan Hospital, healthcare is about more than treatments and services, it’s about people. This space is where we share the stories that shape us: the dedication of our staff, the experiences of our patients and whānau, and the connections we hold with our wider community. From moments of kindness and innovation to milestones in care, The Heart of Central Otago Healthcare shines a light on the impact we make together, ensuring our people, our place, and our patients always remain at the centre.
Stories from the Front Line: Something to Pass On
I remember that day best as a day I learnt an important lesson, although, by then, that had become a normal occurrence for me in Vanuatu.
Stories from the Front Line: Islands in the Sun
Kos, the Greek island that launched a thousand myths. Read Dr. Trevor Lloyds latest story from the front line.
In Memoriam: Sir Sam Neill KNZM
As Patron of the Dunstan Hospital Foundation, Sir Sam brought credibility, warmth, and heartfelt support to our mission.
Stories from the Front Line: A Shocking Experience
A rare disease is said to be a common experience for those who have it. A common disease, I have discovered, feels equally rare for someone who is not used to being sick. Read Dr. Trevor Lloyds latest story from the front line.
Stories from the Front Line: A Troublesome Cough.
I have never really believed in medicines. I don't take them myself and I don't like prescribing them for others. Read Dr. Trevor Lloyds latest story from the front line.
Stories from the Front Line: Wairua
Stories like this remind us that healthcare is about more than treatment — it’s about trust, connection, and wairua. In this reflection from the front line, Dr Trevor Lloyd shares the story of Nuku and Eru, two brothers, ministers, and men of deep faith, whose lives and losses shaped an enduring doctor–patient relationship.
Stories from the Front Line: 4DONNY
Stories like this are why local healthcare matters. In this reflection, Dr Trevor Lloyd writes about Donny, a high country farmer, former All Black, and larger-than-life local character whose resilience on the land was matched only by his reluctance to admit pain.
Reflections From Teviot Valley: Behind the scenes of the Foundation
Kayla Sargeant, our Head of Foundation Marketing & Engagement, reflects on her recent visit to Teviot Valley.
A Milestone Moment: The Foundation’s First Grant in Action
A showcase of grassroots fundraising that continues to demonstrate what’s possible when people rally around better health outcomes for their community.
Bringing Care Home: The Critical Role of District Nursing
In a region defined by distance, community, and rugged landscapes, healthcare looks a little different. For many people in Central Otago, the most important care they’ll receive doesn’t happen inside a hospital, it happens at home.
Expanding Specialist Care for a Growing Community
Each year, Dunstan delivers an expanding number of specialist services. Demand is growing rapidly, as People and Specialist Services Director Catherine Haig explains.
The Story of Dunstan Hospital
From gold rush beginnings to its role today as a rural lifeline, Dunstan Hospital’s story is one of grit, generosity, and community leadership, a 160-year legacy now carried forward by the Dunstan Hospital Foundation.
A Decade of Generosity
Visitors to Dunstan Hospital are greeted by beautifully maintained grounds, green lawns and tidy gardens reflecting the care within. Few realise this is thanks to a special partnership with Fulton Hogan that has quietly flourished for a decade.
From Patient to Patron at Dunstan Hospital
As the Patron of the Dunstan Hospital Foundation, Sam is helping ensure that world-class care remains close to home for everyone in Central Otago.
Much More Than a Meal
For more than a decade, Annette has been the friendly force behind one of Dunstan Hospital’s most vital community services , Meals on Wheels. From her base in Alexandra, she coordinates a small army of volunteers who deliver not only hot meals, but also warmth, connection, and care to people across Central Otago.