The theatres will use the “latest” technology to deliver the highest quality and “purest air” over patients, with a view to reducing chances of infection.
General manager of Anglesea Hospital, Nicky van Praagh.
She said options were also being considered to provide a “high-intensity narrow-spectrum light”, which disinfects surfaces.
Van Praagh believes the new facility will “transform” healthcare services in Waikato for patients.
“Purpose-built spaces designed for recovery, advanced equipment and optimised patient flow will mean shorter surgery times, smoother admissions and much more comfortable recovery environments,” she said.
Establishing a specialist orthopaedic hub in Hamilton would position Anglesea as a leader in musculoskeletal surgery, driving innovation, research and specialist recruitment, while preparing for future healthcare growth, she said.
“Increasing demand for access to orthopaedic specific operating theatres is in high demand,” Van Praagh said.
“Orthopaedic theatres are generally larger, 60m2 or higher, and enable the surgeon to safely conduct these life-changing operations.”
A concept design of the future orthopaedic hospital at Anglesea Hospital in Hamilton.
If needed, the development has been future-proofed to accommodate 21 additional beds and two operating theatres.
The new project is an expansion of the services already provided at Anglesea.
About $10 million of the costs is set aside for new equipment, including full digital operating theatres, pendants, lights, and operating tables.
The project is in stage 1 of earthworks, with stage 2 commencing in February 2026, when the removal of the original hospital canopy will begin.
Access to the hospital will be maintained via temporary shipping container walkways during this time.
Malisha Kumar is a multimedia journalist based in Hamilton. She joined the Waikato Herald in 2023 after working for Radio 1XX in Whakatāne.