45847 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health

45847 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health: On how many days since 1 January 2025 did Christchurch Hospital ICU operate at or above 95 percent occupancy, if any, and on how many of those days, if any, was capacity flexed from 24 to 28 beds?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that between 1 January and 31 August 2025, Christchurch Hospital’s ICU operated with 24 staffed beds, with capacity flexed up to 28 beds on five occasions to meet increased clinical demand. Occupancy exceeded 95 percent on 16 days based on the standard 24-bed capacity. I am further advised that this level of occupancy is actively managed as part of our focus on putting patients first and ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare, and reflects the ICU’s ability to respond safely and effectively to fluctuations in patient need.