VISITING HOSPITAL

All hospital visitors are recommended to wear a medical face mask. Expand this message for information about visiting hospital.

Last updated:
13 March 2023

Some visitor restrictions for all Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury hospitals and health facilities remain in place, but we have relaxed others.

There is still a heightened risk to vulnerable people in hospital and so we recommend all people wear a mask when visiting any of our facilities and follow other advice designed to keep patients, staff and  visitors safe.

Kia whakahaumaru te whānau, me ngā iwi katoa – this is to keep everybody safe:

  • Visitors or support people must not visit our facilities if they are unwell. Do not visit if you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 and haven’t completed your isolation period.
  • Patients may have more than one visitor, except in some situations such as multi-bed rooms where it can cause overcrowding.
  • Surgical/medical masks are recommended be worn at all sites. Masks will be provided if you don’t have one.
  • For Specialist Mental Health Services everyone is strongly encouraged to wear a face mask in all inpatient areas and areas where consumers are receiving care (i.e. community appointments, home-visits, transporting people). Discretion may be applied in cases where masks impair your ability to communicate effectively.
  • Visitors must not eat or drink in multibed rooms because of the increased risk when multiple people remove their face mask in the same space.
  • Hand sanitiser is available and must be used.

Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding as our staff work hard to protect and care for some of the most vulnerable in our community.

Visiting patients with COVID-19

  • People can visit patients who have COVID-19 but they must wear an N95 mask – this will be provided if you don’t have one.
  • Other methods of communication will be facilitated e.g. phone, Facetime, Zoom, WhatsApp etc where visits aren’t possible.

All of our Hospitals

Visiting hours for our hospitals have returned to pre COVID-19 hours with the exception of Christchurch Women’s Hospital.

All visitors are recommended to wear a medical face mask.

Parents/caregivers are able to be with their child in hospital and visitors are now allowed, except for the Children’s Haematology and Oncology Day stay where just one parent/caregiver is able to attend their appointment with their child. Exceptions by special arrangement only.

Patients and visitors should also read the additional more detailed visiting guidelines for each specific hospital.

More COVID-19 information

Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui Monday 18 September 2023

In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that we all go through ups and downs in life, and that's okay. This year's theme is ‘Five Ways, Five Days', providing tools to help us cope when things become difficult or overwhelming.

There are two stories out of Ashburton this week. The Elizabeth Street Day Centre, which provides activities, care and socialisation for vulnerable seniors, had a cute canine visitor last week, and the Ashburton Hospital cooks are producing delicious meals faster and more efficiently thanks to new state-of-the-art kitchen equipment.

Also, in this edition, we celebrate the work of our speech language therapists, mark Chinese Language Week and World Alzheimer's day. We share some more spring images, and the quiz tests your knowledge of the cult classic movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

It's Te Wiki o te reo Māori – Māori Language Week. We are celebrating the indigenous language of Aotearoa New Zealand with a series of events, akoranga (lessons), competitions and gatherings for kaimahi (staff) this week.

Also, in this edition, we meet a specialist paediatric dentist getting out into the community to educate young children about dental health. After more than 30 years, the primary cervical screening test is changing from a pap smear to a human papillomavirus (HPV) test, which can be self-administered. This is expected to increase testing numbers, and contribute to a reduction in cervical cancer cases in New Zealand.

We share more images of spring in this week's pānui and draw attention to World Sepsis Day (13 September), Blue September (for prostate cancer) and Safe Mobility September.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The move into the new Hillmorton facilities is underway, with staff and consumers from The Princess Margaret Hospital relocating today and tomorrow. We share some fantastic images.

Te Mana Ora (Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury’s public health unit) staff are making a commitment to International Care-Free Day, coming up with their own Car-lite Day to encourage their teams to consider other modes of transport for their commute in order to travel more sustainably.

Also, in this edition, there are some significant health issues with awareness campaigns in September, including Cervical Screening Awareness Month, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day and World Sexual Health Day. We share information and insights on each of these.

With the Rugby World Cup kicking off this weekend, you can test what you know about the 2023 event in the quiz.

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Senior doctors and dentists employed by Te Whatu Ora, who are members of ASMS*, have advised they are planning to strike from 12 midday to 2pm on Tuesday 5 September 2023.

(*The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists is the union for senior medical officers – doctors and dentists).

Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury has contingency plans in place to ensure continuing safe care for all patients during the two-hour strike period.

If you have an outpatient or surgery appointment

If the strike is called off

In an emergency

Further industrial action

We have received notice of a further two-hour strike on Wednesday 13 September, from 10am – 12pm. If it goes ahead, we will follow our usual process and contact people directly if their outpatient appointment or surgery needs to be rescheduled.
For more information about the strike and Te Whatu Ora plans visit: https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/for-the-health-sector/senior-doctor-and-dentist-strike/

In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The use of surgical mesh in surgery for stress urinary incontinence has paused, pending the review of a petition from a mesh-injured woman and the implementation of some additional measures.

Also, in this edition, you can read about the team meeting the needs of young people with psychosis and with a change of season just around the corner, we start our first in a new series of reader contributions based around what spring means.

There's photos of last week's successful career expo, which drew around 140 Canterbury secondary school students to explore what a future career in health might look like and require. Check out the short test to review what you have learned in our akoranga reo Māori this year.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The recent announcement of some changes to COVID-19 settings reflects that there has been a reduction in the number of COVID-19 cases
across the motu. It also acknowledges that infectious respiratory illnesses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19, are still affecting people in our community. The Te Whatu Ora Waitaha policy of recommending wearing face masks in all our health, disability and aged care facilities remains unchanged. Some areas of our facilities will continue to require people to wear face masks to protect the most vulnerable.

Also, in this edition, there's an update on the Minor Health Conditions service, and one of our own emergency physicians has contributed to a research paper on Kawasaki disease here in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

This Friday is Daffodil Day, and our staff have marked World Photography Day 2023 and the theme ‘understanding clouds' with some fabulous images shared in the pānui.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This week we meet a group of kaimahi (staff) who use therapeutic play and activities to support infants, toddlers and children in hospital. Whether helping the kids with their development, distracting them from the examinations and treatments or simply having fun, they do amazing work.

Also, in this edition, there's an update on the construction of Waipapa Tower C, and we find out what happens to our old IT equipment.

This week's recipe is a warm pasta salad, and we do a call out for cloud photos to mark World Photography Day on 19 August.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

There were smiles all round in the paediatric surgery ward in Waipapa last week with the arrival of a remote-controlled ride-on car which will entertain the young patients and transport them to appointments, treatments and surgery.

Also, in this edition, we learn how a by-product of kombucha is improving clinical training in Waitaha Canterbury, and we meet six new kaiāwhina starting on the maternity ward at Christchurch Women’s Hospital this week. The New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) strike action proposed for Wednesday has been called off after nurses and midwives accepted the collective agreement offer.

We feature photos of a patient art exhibition held at Burwood Hospital last week and meet some tāngata rongonui Māori (famous Māori people) in the akoranga reo Māori.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

World Breastfeeding Week starts on 1 August, and this year's theme shines a light on workplaces. We hear from one of our own who shares her experience of returning to working and having to express for her baby and from another mother who donates to our NICU Human Milk Bank.

Also, in this edition, we profile four extraordinary kaimahi retiring after long and distinguished health careers. Te Whatu Ora staff have only a few days left to complete the Fitness Passport survey and help design a Te Whatu Ora exclusive fitness programme.

This week's akoranga reo Māori looks at traditional musical instruments, and the quiz has a musical theme too.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Thanks go to our technology staff who worked on the planning, preparation, and implementation of the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha email migration over Matariki weekend. We also appreciate those who have provided support and advice in the week following.

Kudos to the staff based in Ward A5 at Christchurch Hospital for their passionate efforts to raise money as part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, and we also recognise and thank our security teams today, on International Security Officers' Day.

Also, in this edition, there's exciting new technology available to improve testing for hepatitis C. We celebrate the FIFA Women's World Cup, currently being co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia, with a quiz to test your knowledge of the event.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

With winter ailments still applying pressure to the Emergency Department, it's more important than ever that people understand where to seek advice and treatment for non-urgent health issues – the illnesses and injuries that often require some attention but are not urgent or life-threatening.

Also, in this edition, moving day looms closer for the kaimahi relocating from The Princess Margaret Hospital to the fabulous new facilities on the Hillmorton campus. We have images taken at last week's staff blessing and stakeholder walkthroughs.

The work undertaken by Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury to improve sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint has seen Energy Manager Tim Emson, who has led the charge, recognised with an award at the recent Climate Health and Sustainable Healthcare in Aotearoa conference.

This week's akoranga reo Māori teaches some creative answers to the question ‘How are you?'.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Mānawatia a Matariki. This week, we celebrate our second Matariki public holiday, recognising the winter solstice and marking the Māori New Year.

Also, in this edition, we have an update on Project SEARCH intern and New Zealand Olympian Bella Lammers as she returns from the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin. We meet the adorable Biskit and his owner Wanda who are part of the Canine Friends Pet Therapy team spreading joy to hospitals, aged residential care facilities and hospices.

We mark International Non-Binary People's Day, which falls on 14 July, and we also learn how removing the $5 prescription fee is a game-changer for many.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

There have been two significant appointments announced in the past week. Dame Karen Poutasi is the new Te Whatu Ora Board Chair, and Dr Richard Sullivan has been appointed Interim Te Whatu Ora Chief Clinical Officer. July also brings other changes, including an end to the standard $5 prescription fee and improvements to the Carer Support Subsidy.

Also, in this edition, highly respected Medical Oncologist Bridget Robinson is retiring after an outstanding career; and Volunteering Canterbury has recognised the selfless dedication of Wayfinder and Paediatrics Volunteer Sandra Palmer.

Learn about the Whakakotahi | Unify Programme developed by Mana Taurite (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team) and participate in a colouring competition through the Christchurch Hospital Gift Shop.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Winter wellness is something that affects us all. We look at some new initiatives and reiterate the critical reminders about preventing and treating illness this winter.

Also, in this edition, the 2023 Project SEARCH interns promote the programme to young people keen to apply for 2024. There's an update on Kurawaka Waipapa, Canterbury's new central city birthing unit, due to open later this year, with the artist's impressions of a postnatal room and the whānau room.

Last week, special guests from the former Eritrean refugee community joined Te Whatu Ora kaimahi for a traditional coffee ceremony to mark World Refugee Day; and we continue our Matariki theme in this week's akoranga reo Māori. 

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The launch of the Minor Health Conditions Service last week means that certain community members can now (and until 30 September) obtain free treatment for a range of minor health conditions from select pharmacies across Waitaha Canterbury.

We're also celebrating our volunteers in this edition to mark Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu (National Volunteer Week). The extraordinary volunteers across the health system help keep things ticking and improve the experience of patients, consumers, visitors and staff. We appreciate you all.

This week's akoranga reo Māori begins a focus on Matariki, which falls on 14 July this year, and we share a lentil and cauliflower curry recipe to warm you on these chilly nights.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This week sees the launch of a new Minor Health Conditions Service through pharmacies as part of our winter preparedness plan. More than 100 community pharmacies across Waitaha Canterbury are participating in the service, providing advice, medicine and referral for minor health
conditions.

We meet Te Whatu Ora staff and their dogs who, as part of New Zealand's Urban Search and Rescue national team, are ready to respond to any emergency here or abroad. To mark National Blood Donor Week and World Blood Donor Day, some of our kaimahi share their stories as blood donors and recipients of blood donations. 

This week's akoranga reo Māori (te reo Māori lesson) gives us some handy winter words and phrases we can use, and the quiz tests your knowledge of music in the movies.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Several Cantabrians received recognition in the first King's birthday honours, including those with links to (then) Canterbury District Health Board and/or Te Whatu Ora.

June is Energy Awareness Month at Te Whatu Ora. Although here in Waitaha Canterbury we are transforming how we produce energy for our hospitals, there is still more that we can do at work and home to save energy and money. There will be weekly tips and tricks throughout the month on saving energy and reducing our carbon footprint.

Also, in this edition, we see how our colleagues at Ashburton Hospital marked Samoa Language Week and meet a researcher dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson's.

You can test your knowledge of King Charles III in this week's quiz, and warm up the winter days with a yummy corn chowder recipe.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

It's Aotearoa Immunisation Week, and we're looking at the important vaccinations you and your whānau need and perhaps have overlooked.

There was a lot of activity here last Thursday, with Health Minister Hon. Dr Ayesha Verrall attending the opening of new facilities at Hillmorton before taking a tour of the Christchurch campus Energy Centre, getting an update on Waipapa Tower C, and enjoying afternoon tea with some of our longest-serving kaimahi.

We're celebrating Samoa Language Week and presenting our final International Nurses Day profiles. In honour of the 70th anniversary of their conquest of Mount Everest, today's quiz tests your knowledge of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

In this edition, we look at what last week's Budget means for healthcare. With winter officially just days away, the focus is on prevention with Aotearoa Immunisation Week (29 May – 4 June). In addition to the all-important vaccines, we review how we can choose well when we become sick to ensure that we all seek appropriate treatment.

There are some fantastic Pink Shirt Day images from across Te Whatu Ora Waitaha, and we continue our celebration of nurses by delving into some history and featuring a profile of experienced Nurse Coordinator Kylie Clark.

Waipapa has a new bike park to show off, and as part of World Smokefree May, we're all reminded to adhere to the signage around our campuses.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The Christchurch Hospital Volunteers have outdone themselves again, recently providing bright new furniture to the Tiaki Whānau Child and Family Safety Service.

We continue the celebration of International Nurses Day with the profile of another passionate nurse and see how modern technology, in the form of a 3D printer, can help revolutionise healthcare and training.

Also, in this edition, there are some special days and weeks to mark, including Pink Shirt Day (19 May), International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (17 May) and Hospice Awareness Week (15 – 21 May).

The Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Youth Advisory Council has two events this weekend to celebrate Youth Week, and if you're up for it mate, you can test your knowledge of Australia in this week's quiz. Crikey!

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This week and for the rest of May, we are celebrating our nurses. Friday 12 May is International Nurses Day and the theme this year is ‘Our nurses. Our future'. We meet two new nurses this week; one newly graduated and one who will complete his studies in October. They tell us what inspired them to enter nursing and share their passion for their chosen careers.

Also, in this edition, some of our staff recently competed in an international dragon boat competition as part of a breast cancer survivor team. We mark the beginning of a series of Pacific Language Weeks with a celebration of the Rotuman language. It's also New Zealand Sign Language Week and Privacy Week, with information on both included in the pānui.

This week's akoranga reo Māori explores more idioms, and the quiz tests your knowledge of fruit and vegetables.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

World Immunisation Week has come and gone, but there is still a strong focus on ensuring New Zealanders catch up on missed vaccinations. There are new eligibility criteria for receiving the bivalent COVID-19 booster, with pregnant people aged 16 – 29 now eligible.

We celebrate International Day of the Midwife on Friday, 5 May, and hear from a recent first-time Mum about how important midwives were to her pregnancy, childbirth and after-birth experience. We also meet a Registered Māori Midwife who shares some insight into her role and what it means to her.

We farewell two retiring nurses and provide information and resources to mark World Hand Hygiene Day. The last article in the series on creating accessible documents and information features this week, and the quiz tests your knowledge of animated movies.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This Anzac Day, we remember all who have served, past and present. We also share a story about acknowledging 10 South Island nurses lost in World War I when their ship was torpedoed. The Akaroa Men's Shed has created beautiful white crosses for the Nurses' Memorial Chapel lawn.

Also, in this edition, we have some important events to mark, including Administrative Professionals Week, World Immunisation Week and World Day for Safety and Health at Work. There's a revision test in this week's akoranga reo Māori, and we have a recipe from the Wellfood team for a sweet winter dessert.

This week's quiz is on the fab four – The Beatles.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

On 26 April, a travel survey will be released to help us understand how people get to and from work and what they need to commute safely. We ask all staff who live and/or work in the greater Christchurch area to complete it.

Work has begun on Waipapa Tower C, and we meet a Burwood Hospital social worker advocating for people with brain injuries.
Also, in this edition, our new fleet of electric vehicles has started to hit the road, and there are some great tips for better communication with people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

This week's akoranga reo Māori teaches us the words for different clothing.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

A huge thank you to everyone who worked to support the health system over the long Easter weekend.

In this week's edition, we meet Ashburton Hospital's newest security guard and see the most recent photos of the new facilities under construction on the Hillmorton campus. There's a review of a recent day-long symposium held by The March 15 Project. Various experts shared their knowledge and research on the trauma experienced by people affected by the mosque attacks of 2019.

Also, in this edition, there's a call out for volunteers to support Meals on Wheels and a request for new pyjamas for children in the hospital.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

As winter creeps closer, we're talking about vaccinations again, particularly flu, COVID-19 and pertussis (whooping cough). The Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Youth Advisory Council has produced a video to help young people navigate and get the most out of their GP appointments, and the University of Canterbury is celebrating 150 years.

Also, in this edition, we meet Nurse Practitioner Amanda Van Asperen who cares for older adults in Ashburton and get the first glimpse of the new Riverside loading docks that opened today.

This week's quiz tests your memory of some classic British comedies.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

With daylight saving ending next weekend and the temperature dropping, the focus has turned to winter preparedness, including planning for seasonal illnesses, getting vaccines up to date, and adding hearty winter recipes to your menu.

This week's edition has information about a new project starting at Burwood Hospital. The Stroke Allied Health team will be trialling the use of equipment to address some equity of access issues for Māori, Pasifika and rural patients. You can learn how technology helps our facilities function through the new Building Management System and see how the Christchurch campus is being made more seismically resistant.

Test your knowledge of some classic one-hit wonders in this week's quiz.

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THIS IS AN ARCHIVED PAGE. The advice and information contained in this page may not be current and it should only be used for historical reference purposes.

Health Warning – Algal Bloom in Waikirikiri/ Selwyn River at Whitecliffs Picnic Area

Health Warning Lifted – Algal Bloom in Rakahuri/Ashley River at Rangiora-Loburn Bridge

Health Warning lifted for Algal Bloom in Rakahuri/Ashley River at Rangiora-Loburn Bridge

Te Mana Ora | Community and Public Health has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued for the Rakahuri/Ashley River at Rangiora-Loburn Bridge. This was issued on 9/02/2023.

Recent cyanobacteria surveys of Rakahuri/Ashley River at Rangiora-Loburn Bridge have shown the cover of potentially toxic algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river has reduced and is now below levels that are of concern to public health.

Dr Matthew Reid, Medical Officer of Health for Te Mana Ora, National Public Health Service, says Environment Canterbury’s monitoring of Rakahuri/Ashley River at Rangiora-Loburn Bridge will resume next summer when there is increased likelihood of cyanobacteria growth.

Facts about cyanobacteria:

  • Appears as dark brown/black mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.
  • A low cover of the algae can occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer months. Algal blooms are influenced by a combination of available nutrients in the water and sediments (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), a sustained period of low and stable flows, and favourable weather conditions (e.g. increased temperature, calm days).
  • It often has a strong musty smell and algal toxin concentrations can vary over short periods.
  • Although high river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure to toxins.
  • If a health warning is in place avoid contact with the water.
  • Although district or city councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/ dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river cautiously.

For further details visit: https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/

Or contact Te Mana Ora on (03) 364 1777:

https://www.cph.co.nz/your-health/recreational-water/

For more information about Mahinga Kai:

https://www.cph.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/saf0112.pdf

For further information, contact:

communications@cdhb.health.nz

ENDS

 

In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This week marks the beginning of Ramadan, and Health Promoter Ayan Hussein shares how she and her family will honour the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar.

Also, in this edition, Waitaha Canterbury does well in the Aotearoa Bike Challenge, and we learn about the environmental and financial benefits of decommissioning Nitrous Oxide. There has been much to celebrate on the Burwood campus with Brain Awareness Week and the hospital one step closer to becoming the first Dementia Friendly accredited hospital in the country.

Test how much you know about board games in this week's quiz.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

This week, we meet Te Whatu Ora’s interim Board Chair, Naomi Ferguson, and mark Christchurch Pride and the beginning of the second annual Unity Week.

Also, in this edition, there is well-deserved recognition and success for Canterbury Pathology staff at the Pathology Update in Melbourne, and our Mana Taurite team celebrate a huge HR award. Work will begin this month on the construction of a new energy centre in Ashburton, and the University of Otago Christchurch is celebrating 50 years of medical research and excellence.

We share the sixth item in the series of tips on creating accessible information and documents, and you can test your knowledge of the most popular toys in the world.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Autumn is bringing cooler weather and a reminder to prepare for winter. Vaccinations for COVID-19, flu and MMR are front of mind again.

In this edition, we also mark International Women’s Day with thoughts from Interim Chief People Officer Jo Domigan and Director of Nursing Becky Hickmott. Two lucky staff can also win a double pass to see the stage production of That Bloody Woman in July.

We catch up with the participants at the end of the Fossil Fuel Free Coast to Coast to Coast, and there’s an important message for people over 40 about getting their eyes checked.

If you’re a nature lover or amateur David Attenborough, you’ll enjoy this week’s true or false quiz.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Te Whatu Ora kaimahi (staff) have stepped up to support colleagues and communities affected by Cyclone Gabrielle through generous donations to aid organisations and/or volunteering to work in the region. Thanks so much to all of you!

We celebrate those who graduated recently from the Tū Tangata Tū Rangatira, growing Māori leaders hōtaka | programme at Ngāti Wheke marae, in this week’s edition. Health Promoter Diane Shannon retires after an extraordinary career, and we meet Mary Gould, who has been preparing delicious food at The Princess Margaret Hospital for 45 years.

There is the welcome announcement of an increase in the Special Needs Grant for dental treatment, and you can test your knowledge of the Rugby World Cup as the countdown to France 2023 begins.

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

As the clean-up continues in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, there’s an opportunity for Te Whatu Ora staff to volunteer in the hardest hit areas. The first case of measles in more than three years has emerged in New Zealand, and there are changes to eligibility for free COVID-19 healthcare.

Also, in this edition, we meet some hardy (and fit) staff participating in the Fossil Fuel Free Coast to Coast to Coast. There’s an important reminder about the upcoming flu season, and we meet Waitaha’s only on-site female tradie, Maintenance Painter Rochelle Tourell.

Manu, our replacement virtual desktop is introduced, and there are more valuable tips on creating accessible information and documents.

Challenge yourself with this week’s quiz on ‘songs of summer'.

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Today's pānui celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science by showcasing some of the extraordinary wāhine of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury. Eight women are featured, sharing their stories and background in science/technology.

Also, in this edition, there’s a test for those who followed the te reo Māori akoranga (lessons) last year. How much do you remember? We talk with Flight Crew Manager Rick Knight about the difference the Christchurch Hospital helipad has made during its first two years in operation, and Christchurch Women’s Hospital is getting a lighting upgrade.

There are some tips for a healthy Valentine’s Day, and this week’s quiz is about famous fictional couples.

 

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

In today’s pānui, we thank the many people who leapt into action during last Friday’s power outage at Christchurch Hospital. A calm and collective response kept the people in our care safe.

Also, in this edition, we celebrate our largest ever intake of new nurses graduating and starting their health careers, and not to be outdone by the paediatric boat race that featured in the 30 January pānui, 16 teams participated in a highly competitive Allied Health race on the Avon River last week.

There’s an opportunity for staff, friends, and whānau to volunteer and do their bit for a greener Canterbury by planting and maintaining native trees. Current and former Health and Disability system response staff can register for the COVID-19 Response Recognition Award to acknowledge their contribution to New Zealand’s COVID-19 response.

This week’s quiz tests your knowledge of Waitangi Day and te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi).

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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THIS IS AN ARCHIVED PAGE. The advice and information contained in this page may not be current and it should only be used for historical reference purposes.
Health warning  – Algal Bloom in Rakahuri/Ashley River at SH1

Canterbury set to sizzle heading into the long weekend

Issued: 1 February 2023

Te Mana Ora | Community and Public Health is reminding Cantabrians to keep cool and hydrated as temperatures are set to sizzle across the region for several days in a row.

Hot weather is forecast for Canterbury with temperatures predicted to be 30 degrees or above for four consecutive days from Thursday 2 February to Sunday 5 February.

Dr Cheryl Brunton, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health for Te Whatu Ora, National Public Health Service, says people need to take sensible precautions while temperatures are this high and for prolonged periods.

“Over the next few days, if your plans involve being outdoors, it’s important that you stay out of the sun where possible, ensure people and pets aren’t left alone in stationary cars and avoid extreme physical exertion especially during the hottest part of the day.

“While the elderly, infants and children, women who are pregnant, people suffering from chronic, acute and severe illness are more at risk, heat can affect us all and overheating is a condition that can prove fatal,” says Dr Brunton.

There are some simple steps that we can all take to reduce the risk to our health when the temperatures are high. They include:

  • Avoiding going outside during the hottest time of the day
  • Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine
  • Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured cotton clothes.

Dr Brunton says if you are going to be exposed to hot weather for long periods of time make sure you carry water and drink at least half a litre an hour, allow for more breaks in the shade and reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. If you are working outdoors try to schedule the hardest work in the coolest part of the day.

“Aside from being SunSmart (Slip, Slop, Slap & Wrap) if you have to go outside, you can keep your house cool by closing curtains on windows that get direct sun, opening windows to get a breeze if it's cooler out than in, and where possible consider using the cool cycle on heat pumps.

If it’s not possible to keep your home cool, you should look to spend a few hours of the day in a cool place e.g. an indoor swimming pool, an air-conditioned public building, a marae or church, all of which tend to be cool in summer,” says Dr Brunton.

People should keep medicines below 25C degrees or in the refrigerator (read the storage instructions on the packaging).

If you feel dizzy, weak or have an intense thirst or headache you may be dehydrated. Drink some water and rest in a cool place. If you symptoms persist or you’re concerned about your health, or someone else’s, seek medical advice. You can call your general practice team 24/7 for care around the clock – after hours a nurse can provide free health advice, and tell you what to do and where to go if you need to be seen urgently.

ENDS

 

In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Peter bids a final farewell to Te Whatu Ora Waitaha in today’s pānui. We get some reminders about staying safe and well in the warm summer weather, and there’s a shout out to staff, past and present, to share images and memories of The Princess Margaret Hospital.

Congratulations to the Health Welfare Team at the Canterbury Hauora Coordination Hub after they received an award for innovative practice. Recognition also for some of our Pharmacy team, who shone at the annual New Zealand Hospital Pharmacists’ Association conference in Auckland.

Also, in this edition, we learn about the Birth After Thoughts Clinic, a service offered to anyone who has given birth to their baby in a Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury facility since July 2022. The Christchurch Hospital volunteers have generously purchased a special comfort chair for patients needing treatment in the Hyperbaric Unit, and the fit-out of the new Waipapa maternity unit – Kurawaka, has begun

This week’s quiz is in honour of Sir Elton John, who performed in Christchurch for the last time this month.

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

Ngā mihi o te tau hou (Happy New Year), and welcome to the first pānui of 2023. This week, we bring in the Year of the Rabbit with some new Te Whatu Ora appointments and celebrate three recipients of New Year honours.

Also, in this edition, there is an update on Christchurch Hospital Orderly Wiremu Manahi-Holm (previously profiled in 2022) as he continues to excel in his career. The wild paediatric boat race returns, and we introduce a new ‘My slice of Kiwi heaven’ segment. We learn that our COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or mate ia tuku) hospital admissions and bed occupancy were at a record low in 2022, and Hato Hone St John has launched a new health shuttle in Christchurch.

If you were watching TV in the 90s, you might score well in this week’s quiz.

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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THIS IS AN ARCHIVED PAGE. The advice and information contained in this page may not be current and it should only be used for historical reference purposes.

Please see new advice issued on 10 January 2023.

Advice issued 30 December 2022. 

Te Mana Ora | Community and Public Health Unit has issued a health warning after high levels of faecal bacteria were found in samples taken from Cass Bay.

Dr Ramon Pink Medical Officer of Health for Te Mana Ora, National Public Health Service, says:

“Water quality at Cass Bay is not considered suitable for recreational uses including swimming because of the risk to human health from the bacteria and other pathogens.”

Eating shellfish from these sites should be avoided. If fish are eaten, remove the gut and liver and wash in clean water before cooking. For further information on gathering mahinga kai refer to the information below.

Water contaminated by human or animal faecal matter may contain a range of disease-causing micro-organisms such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa.

A number of other sites within Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour including Corsair Bay, Rāpaki Bay, Sandy Bay, Diamond Harbour Beach, Purau Beach are permanently not suitable for swimming.

“The sites where water quality is affected are listed on Environment Canterbury and Land Air Water Aotearoa websites,” Dr Pink says.

Anyone that experiences gastrointestinal illness should contact their GP in the first instance or call Healthline on 0800 611 116

For further details visit: https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/

Or contact Te Mana Ora on (03) 364 1777:

https://www.cph.co.nz/your-health/recreational-water/

For more information about Mahinga Kai:

https://www.cph.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/saf0112.pdf

For further information, contact:

communications@cdhb.health.nz

 

ENDS

In this edition of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui

The last pānui of the year, and it's a bumper issue. Peter reflects on 2022 and acknowledges the extraordinary commitment of Te Whatu Ora kaimahi to the health and wellbeing of our community.

Also, in this edition, we meet the 2022 Project SEARCH interns, celebrate the work of the Hauora Coordination Hub and Older Persons' Health and Rehabilitation farewell a beloved Service Manager after a 47-year career.

To mark the festive season, our staff share some of their favourite Christmas traditions and the things they're looking forward to these holidays. There are pages of Christmas photos, and we have a very special ‘One minute with…' the big man himself, Santa Claus! There's a quiz to test your knowledge of Christmas songs and movies, and we publish our last ‘Meet my pet'.

Thanks for your contributions, feedback and readership in 2022. We will be back on 23 January 2023. Meri Kirihimete!

You can read the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha | Canterbury Pānui in two different formats:

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Page last updated: 19 December 2022

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