The proof will be in the pudding on whether the new Dunedin Hospital will cause regional hospitals to be neglected.

There have been concerns centralised health facilities on the new site will leave regional facilities unsure of their future or funding.

Central Otago District Mayor Tim Cadogan says he hopes the government won't neglect Central Otago's hospitals.

“There’s a lot more people here so that growth needs to be recognised in funding in coming years to Dunstan Hospital, outside of this major investment in Otago Hospital.”

The site of the new hospital was announced by Minister of Health David Clark yesterday.