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Why were patients left in Wakari Hospital Ward 10A, for months, after officials knew about restrictive practices and serious concerns?

Answered Question 33844 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged

Asked by

Ingrid Leary

Member for Taieri · Labour Party

Question

  • Why were patients left in Wakari Hospital Ward 10A, for months, after officials knew about restrictive practices and serious concerns?

Answered by

Hon Matt Doocey

Member for Waimakariri · National Party · Minister for Mental Health

Answer

I am advised that patients remained in Wakari Hospital Ward 10A because Health New Zealand considered it the best available place for those patients while alternative arrangements were made. These patients have highly complex forensic intellectual disability needs and safe transfers to other facilities required significant planning, assessment, and coordination. I am also advised Health NZ is ensuring clinical leadership is providing robust oversight and that there are no current concerns about the immediate safety of people receiving care in Ward 10A.