Minister of Health, Hon. Dr Shane Reti has officially opened new ARG Te Tai Tokerau Radiology branch in Whangārei

RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group is delighted to announce that their newest branch, ARG Te Tai Tokerau Radiology, was officially opened by Minister of Health the Hon. Dr Shane Reti on 15 March 2024. This purpose-built clinic has revolutionised access to essential cancer diagnosis and therapeutics for Northland communities with the introduction of the first provincial digital PET-CT scanner in New Zealand.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Hon. Dr Shane Reti emphasised the importance of this new clinic to Northland communities.

“This is the first provincial centre in New Zealand with a PET-CT. This technology is an incredibly important part of the diagnostic / therapeutic pathway for cancer patients. Along with the new radiation cancer facility at Whangārei hospital, the whole cancer service in Northland is really stepping up. I’m particularly pleased that the people of Northland will receive potentially better cancer services across the whole enterprise, public and private from this new ARG Te Tai Tokerau clinic being here.”

Other high-profile attendees included Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo; Alex Pimm, Te Whatu Ora Group Director Operations. The event was also attended by members of the local medical community, representatives of local Iwi including Richard Nahi who opened the ceremony, RHCNZ Chairperson Peter Coman, and senior RHCNZ staff including CEO Terry McLaughlin, Chief Marketing and Customer Officer Jocelyn Cameron, Chief Performance Officer Aaron Holmwood and Auckland Regional Manager Michelle Holmes.

The opening ceremony, which was held on site at 27 Porowini Avenue, Morningside, included the unveiling of the commemorative plaque to honour Dr Reti’s involvement. After the formalities concluded, attendees were given a tour of the new clinic and provided with light refreshments.

RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group CEO Terry McLaughlin says this new branch, strategically located in Whangārei is incredibly significant for Northland communities.

“I am delighted that the Hon. Dr Shane Reti is able to support our mission to provide comprehensive, world-class medical imaging services in the Northland region. As well as improving access to expert diagnostic imaging, this new clinic will provide additional services to the region.

Previously, Northland patients have had to travel to Auckland for essential services such as PET-CT scans. We understand that long-distance travel can be challenging, expensive and time-consuming for those already facing healthcare concerns,” said Mr. McLaughlin.

ARG Te Tai Tokerau Radiology offers an extensive range of medical imaging services including MRI, CT scan, x-ray, PET-CT scan and ultrasound. What sets this clinic apart is the expertise of the clinical staff featuring Radiologists whose sub-specialties include Musculoskeletal, Women’s Health, Abdominal, Oncology, Pediatric, and more.

ARG Te Tai Tokerau Radiology, opened on Monday 15 January 2024 with a traditional Māori blessing ceremony. Since opening its doors, this clinic has assisted over 1000 Whangārei and Far North patients with their medical imaging needs.