NZDF Opens First Integrated Health and Rehab Centre at Burnham

Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk says the new facility — named Tū Manawa Ora — sets a new benchmark for military healthcare infrastructure in New Zealand.

A purpose-built, first-of-its-kind Military Health and Performance Centre has officially opened at Burnham Military Camp, marking a major upgrade in how the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) supports the health, rehabilitation and operational readiness of its personnel.

Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk says the new facility — named Tū Manawa Ora — sets a new benchmark for military healthcare infrastructure in New Zealand.

“Kiwis who put on the uniform put their lives on the line to defend and protect New Zealand and its people. They deserve the best support possible to proactively care for their minds and bodies, and to help them get back on their feet when they’re injured,” Mr Penk says.

First Combined Health and Rehabilitation Hub in NZDF Estate

Tū Manawa Ora is the first facility across the NZDF estate to integrate comprehensive health, rehabilitation, performance and resilience services under one roof.

The centre brings together multi-disciplinary teams to deliver coordinated care, improving both injury prevention and recovery outcomes for Defence personnel.

The new facility includes:

• Comprehensive medical treatment centre

• Dental services

• Physiotherapy, rehabilitation and performance spaces

• Psychological resilience, pastoral care, social work and counselling services

• Education, research, simulation and training facilities

• Staff and logistics areas

• Emergency response capabilities, including ambulance facilities

Raising the Standard of Military Healthcare

Mr Penk says the centre represents a significant shift in how the Defence Force looks after its people.

“Today’s opening represents a step forward in how the Defence Force looks after its people, setting a new standard for healthcare infrastructure across camps and bases,” he says.

By providing integrated medical, physical and psychological support in a single location, NZDF aims to:

• Improve recovery times for injured personnel

• Strengthen mental resilience and wellbeing

• Enhance physical performance and injury prevention

• Boost retention rates

• Improve overall operational readiness

“Providing multi-disciplinary care will benefit both the prevention and treatment of health issues, ensuring Defence personnel are well supported during service and continue to thrive long after they leave the Force,” Mr Penk says.

Strategic Investment at South Island’s Largest Base

Burnham Military Camp, the largest military base in the South Island, plays a critical role in national security, supporting:

• Training and force generation

• Operational deployments

• Humanitarian assistance missions

• Disaster response operations

Locating the centre at Burnham reflects the camp’s strategic importance within New Zealand’s defence framework.

Delivered in 18 Months, $22 Million Investment

The $22 million project was completed in just 18 months through collaboration between the Defence Estate and Infrastructure group and construction partner Hawkins New Zealand, alongside Alliance partners Ernst & Young, GHD NZ and Beca.

The rapid delivery underscores the priority placed on improving infrastructure that directly supports frontline personnel.

“Military healthcare professionals now also have a modern, fit-for-purpose environment that enables the delivery of high-quality health, rehabilitation and performance services,” Mr Penk says.

Supporting Operational Readiness and Retention

The investment is expected to strengthen NZDF’s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel by demonstrating a commitment to wellbeing and modern working environments.

“This new centre demonstrates to our Defence people that while they dedicate themselves to serving New Zealand, we are committed to ensuring they have the health, wellbeing and working environments they need to perform at their best,” Mr Penk says.

The opening of Tū Manawa Ora signals a new chapter in integrated military healthcare, positioning NZDF to better support its people both in service and beyond.