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. From quad bike accidents to kidney stones to critical infection, Donny’s story reveals something fundamental about rural medicine: care close to home is deeply personal.

Kayla Sargeant, our Head of Foundation Marketing & Engagement, reflects on her recent visit to Teviot Valley.

A showcase of grassroots fundraising that continues to demonstrate what’s possible when people rally around better health outcomes for their community.

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.

Each year, Dunstan delivers an expanding number of specialist services. Demand is growing rapidly, as People and Specialist Services Director Catherine Haig explains.

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.

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.

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.

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.