The first modules for the new 28-bed inpatient ward at Hawke’s Bay Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital have been lifted into place.

It is one of five modular inpatient wards being delivered across New Zealand under the Government’s fast-tracked hospital wards programme, providing an additional 140 beds at hospitals nationwide.

The new ward would be used for short-stay surgical patients and surgical assessments, streamlining care and freeing up surgical and medical inpatient beds elsewhere in the hospital.

The new ward was built using modules constructed by Southbase Construction in South Auckland.

Southbase North Island manager Marcus Beddis told Hawke’s Bay Today in November that the plan was to have the new ward operational in the second half of 2026.

Four modules were transported from the assembly facility on Sunday night and craned into position.

They are the first of 14 modules that will form the completed 28-bed inpatient ward.

Modules being craned into place for the new 28-bed inpatient unit at Hawke's Bay Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital.

Health Minister Simeon Brown said the module buildings being put in place were a “significant milestone” as the Government works “at pace” to increase capacity at Hawke’s Bay Hospital, helping to meet demand and improve access for people needing surgery.

“Since construction began in January, work has moved quickly, and this week’s milestone shows the pace at which this additional capacity is being delivered,” Brown said.

“These wards are an important part of our plan to modernise hospital infrastructure – helping relieve pressure on busy hospitals now while supporting the long-term needs of New Zealand’s growing population.”

“This new ward has patients at the centre of its design and will play an important role in helping meet the Government’s health targets by improving patient flow, increasing capacity, and supporting better care and outcomes for people across Hawke’s Bay.”

Tukituki MP Catherine Wedd said the new unit supported better healthcare for people across Hawke’s Bay.

“As the local MP I have advocated strongly for Hawke’s Bay hospital and it’s good to see this rapid progress,” she said.