Tauranga, in New Zealand’s beautiful Bay of Plenty, is mounting a huge campaign to raise over $2 million to build a cancer centre. For a population of approximately 130 000 this is no small feat. But, like any fast growing community it is rapidly outgrowing the needs of its inhabitants. Statistics indicate that this figure will increase by over 54% within the next 17 years.
In relation to this a recent survey shows cancer rates for the Bay of Plenty to be higher (around 17%) than the national average and predicted to grow significantly during the next seven years.
In keeping with world trends, local communities are being asked to reach into their own pockets to fund resources that are deemed expediential to government allocated funds. Neither is it the jurisdiction of local bodies whose mandate does not cover health. It is usually a given that Governments will provide hospital facilities but historically they are centrally located and offer basic services. This gives rise to individual specialty areas set up by independent bodies and dedicated providers.
A dedicated group of people registered as The Bay Health Foundation have taken on the role of providing the funds for health care provisions not provided by the government. After extensive research, conducted in conjunction with local health authorities, it was abundantly clear what their next campaign should be. Chairman of the board Mike Frohlich comments; “None of us can afford to ignore the alarming evidence and the need to address the issue before it becomes critical".
Nonetheless the much asked questions is: Why a Cancer Centre? The short answer is: currently all cancer related facilities are fragmented – bringing them together under one roof will provide a better organised and more focused way of meeting the needs of patients and their families.
Over 35% of people diagnosed with cancer travel to Hamilton (approximately one hour away by car) for treatment. Many have to make these trips on a regular basis and others are forced to relocate for extended periods of time. Whilst the toll on patients is immeasurable those close to them are also impacted. Sadly, by this equation, few remain untouched by this dreadful disease.
The proposed Cancer Centre is to be a totally dedicated facility which is seen as a ‘community’ resource – a one-stopshop that houses all related information and services. It will offer medical advice and treatment, counselling and alternative medicine in comfortable, attractive surroundings.

Some of the individual services that will be provided include:
• A totally dedicated Consultation Centre for local and visiting oncologists and other specialists
• An Information Centre, including large reception area, library resource centre, training and meeting rooms
• Liaison centre for Waipuna Hospice and other community nurses
• Cancer Society Information (they will have a highly visible and important presence at the Centre)
• Cancer Services Network
• Palliative Care Centre
• Haematology Clinic
• Chemotherapy treatments and services
• Counselling and Therapeutic Services
• Holistic and alternative options
• Family/Whanau areas

Plans for future expansion of services and addition of other treatments, including a linear accelerator or radiotherapy unit, will be included in the final drawings for the centre. We are hopeful that this will follow soon after the completion of the centre and be the nexus for our next project.
The Centre will be located on the hospital grounds, separated from other facilities and will feature an inviting, non-clinical reception area. Landscaping with outdoor seating and beautiful gardens will reinforce this environment. The benefits of having such a centre based here are many and will directly affect a great many people.
The Foundation’s role is the provision of the required finances to fund the construction and fitting out of such a centre. The ongoing management, maintenance and the provision of services will be the responsibility of those using it. The project is fully endorsed by the Waikato and Bay of Plenty District Health Boards, the private sector, support agencies, community groups and others personally affected.
“Project Hope” (the name of the campaign) has captured the imagination of the whole community and is providing an opportunity for schools, groups and associations as well as individuals to be a part of history in the making. The new building will say: Established in 2006 by the Bay Health Foundation made possible by the Bay of Plenty community.

Note: The reason for my interest in this campaign is that I have a mother living in Tauranga. God willing she will not require these services but I am sure I represent a number of expats who have family in New Zealand and take an interest in their progress. If you would like to contribute to this worthy cause you can make a donation through this office or direct to: Project Hope – Bay Health Foundation, PO Box 597 Tauranga, New Zealand.