New Zealand’s first purpose built children’s hospital, the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for Children, opened in Wellington in 1912, thanks to a remarkable community fundraising effort.
Find out more about the Foundation's heritage project to save the hospital's original Royal Doulton Tiles.
More than a century later, that same spirit of generosity brought the region’s new Te Wao Nui Children’s Hospital to life, opening its doors on 30 September 2022.
The hospital was made possible by the extraordinary $50 million gift from Sir Mark Dunajtschik and Dorothy Spotswood, alongside our community which raised a further $10 million to outfit and equip the stunning new facility. With additional government support, the total project cost $110 million.
Te Wao Nui Child Health Service is part of New Zealand’s national tertiary level specialist paediatric network, caring not only for children from the wider central region - from Gisborne in the north to Nelson and Marlborough in the south - but also for tamariki from across the country.
The unique philanthropic model meant that paediatric teams worked hand in hand with architects and builders to create a hospital designed around the needs of children and whānau. Inside, the theme of Te Wao Nui - the great forest - comes to life with beautiful Wētā Workshop murals, an iconic Tree of Life and playful spaces inspired by the forest ecosystem.
Without the generosity of Sir Mark, Dorothy and our community, a new children’s hospital would have been many years away. Their legacy means that generations of tamariki across central Aotearoa and beyond will now receive world class care in a purpose built environment designed just for them.
But bricks and mortar are only part of the story. There is still important mahi to do to maintain a high quality Child Health Service, now and into the future. With over 87,000 child admissions and appointments every year, your ongoing kindness and generosity ensures that tamariki and rangitahi continue to access the best possible care.
Markus’s Story
Harry Potter fan Markus was just six when a simple tummy bug suddenly became life threatening. Diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder (atypical Guillain-Barre) he was paralysed within weeks, ventilated and endured months of surgery and rehabilitation far from home.
Markus has undergone multiple complex surgeries and specialist therapies. His recovery has been a true team effort, with doctors, nurses and allied health staff who not only treated his condition but also helped him feel seen and cared for as a child.
As a mum I am so grateful for all the incredible professionals who have taken the time to build meaningful relationships with Markus. It seemed like it was just overnight that Markus left a normal busy childhood and found himself in a completely adult world. In fact, he had many long months with no opportunities to be with other children. However, the friendships he made with staff allowed him to develop a strong sense of belonging, safety and fun. This means he actually loves coming into hospital, and even enjoys going to surgery! He knows that the doctors, nurses and staff are helping him get better and takes great comfort knowing they are there figuring things out. – Karen
The opening of Te Wao Nui Regional Children’s Hospital now brings all paediatric services together under one roof, making it easier for children like Markus to receive world class care in a space designed with tamariki at its heart.
Meet the guardians of Te Wao Nui
A whānau of nine friendly kaitiaki help children feel safe, supported and cared for throughout their hospital stay. Together they embody the spirit of Te Wao Nui, ensuring the hospital is not just a place of treatment but also one of warmth and care.
