New Zealand hospices urgently need better funding support

Hospices in New Zealand are facing financial challenges as demand for their services increases. Last year, it cost $226 million to operate 28 publicly funded hospices, but the government only provided $114 million. An independent report shows that for every dollar the government allocates to hospices, New Zealanders receive at least $1.59 in benefits. This funding shortfall is impacting their ability to meet rising care needs. The number of Kiwis requiring hospice care is expected to double by 2045, highlighting the urgent need for a new funding model to support these essential services.