Alzheimers NZ welcomes Buller care investment

Alzheimers NZ has welcomed Government support for the expansion of Westport’s O’Conor Home, saying the additional specialist care will make a meaningful difference for Buller families. 

The new wing will provide 10 additional dementia care places and 14 hospital-level care beds. 

“Having care available close to family, friends and familiar surroundings matters enormously,” says Alzheimers NZ Chief Executive Dave Robinson. 

“This is welcome news for Buller. We acknowledge the Government’s support and the work of the O’Conor Institute Trust Board and everyone helping bring this project to life.” 

Mr Robinson says investment in residential care should go hand in hand with support for people living with dementia at home. 

“Community dementia services help people live well at home for longer. They provide practical advice, education and day programmes, and support care partners and whānau who often carry enormous responsibility. 

“With the right help early on, families can manage better, reducing the risk of a crisis that leads to an avoidable hospital admission or an earlier move into residential care.” 

Alzheimers NZ is calling for funding and implementation of the Dementia Mate Wareware Action Plan 2026–2031, including clear funding commitments for community dementia services. 

“Helping people live well at home needs to be part of the Government’s response to hospital pressure, alongside investment in facilities like O’Conor Home. 

“For Buller families, and families across New Zealand, we want care that connects home, hospital and residential services, with support available when people need it.”