BACKING TARANAKI'S BATTLE WITH CANCER

Toi Foundation is pleased to contribute $1.5 million to the development of the new Taranaki Cancer Centre at Taranaki Base Hospital — a project set to bring vital cancer treatment closer to home for our region.

With over 600 people diagnosed with cancer in Taranaki each year — and around half requiring radiation therapy — the new Centre will make a meaningful difference. Most patients will be able to complete their treatment locally, needing only one initial consultation outside the region.

This funding will support important upgrades that enhance comfort and care for patients and their whānau, helping reduce the need for long-distance travel and time away from support networks during treatment.

“This grant represents a significant milestone in our mission to bring enhancements to healthcare in Taranaki. It means that patients can focus on their treatment and recovery without the additional stress of travel and time away from loved ones,” says Taranaki Health Foundation Chairperson Brian Ropitini.

Providing cancer care locally will not only ease emotional stress but also lessen the financial impact on patients and families. It means most people will no longer have to travel outside the region for treatment, avoiding the added costs and disruption that come with time away from home. It allows patients to stay connected to their work, whānau, and daily routines while receiving care.

The Centre will feature 10 chemotherapy chairs, isolation rooms, outpatient consultation spaces, and virtual consultation capabilities — all designed to support a more accessible and patient-focused care experience.

"We are committed to improving community wellbeing,” says Toi Foundation CEO Maria Ramsay. “We’re proud to support a project that brings critical care closer to the people who need it most.”