Nine To Noon Around the motu: Lee Scanlon reports from Westport
Nov 11, 2025
Lee Scanlon, chief reporter for the Westport News, shares insights into pressing local issues on the West Coast. He highlights the Buller Declaration's push for improved health services, driven by a powerful hikoi with 60,000 signatures. Lee also discusses recent hospital closures and staffing challenges impacting care. Additionally, he reviews unexpected local election outcomes and the new Buller mayor's pledge for transparency amidst media tensions. Lastly, he notes the community's recognition of heroes in the recent civic and sporting awards.
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Health Systems Framed As National Crisis
- The Buller Declaration frames rural health as a national crisis and gathered 60,000 signatures on a 180-metre petition.
- Lee Scanlon reports the hikoi aims to force urgent government action for strained local health services.
Hospital Closures Sparked Local Protest
- Westport Hospital repeatedly closed, and a discharged patient later died, prompting local protests and the Buller Declaration.
- After national attention from Malcolm Mulholland, Buller Hospital stopped having temporary closures according to Lee Scanlon.
Advocacy Stabilised Local Services
- Rural staff shortages and telehealth replacing urgent weekend GP clinics intensified service gaps in Buller.
- National advocacy boosted stability: no further Buller Hospital closures since Malcolm Mulholland raised the issues.