25654 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

25654 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What was the monthly bed utilisation rate at each of Ashburton, Bay of Islands, Kaitāia, Kenepuru, Lakes District, Taupō, Te Kūiti, Te Nīkau Grey, Thames, Timaru, Tokoroa, Wairarapa, Wairau, Whakatāne, and Whanganui hospitals in each month from 1 November 2025 to the most recent month for which complete data is held?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that providing the Member with this information would require Health New Zealand to undertake a substantial manual collation exercise and divert staff from their core duties. In accordance with Speaker’s Ruling 210-6, I consider that the time, and hence the expense, of answering the Member’s question is not in the public interest.