Tauranga’s walk-in urgent care clinic has extended its opening hours.

From today, Accident and HealthCare on Second Ave is open from 7am to 10pm daily, instead of 8am to 8pm.

A joint statement from Accident and HealthCare and the Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (PHO) said the change was in response to a “long-standing need” for longer hours, with evening demand “often running past 8pm”.

Accident and HealthCare business manager Callum Gilbert said it was pleased to make this change ahead of summer.

To keep patients and staff safe, the team would manage the queue in the evening so the clinic could close on time.

Anyone still waiting at closing would be advised by the medical team on the appropriate next step.

This may include being redirected to alternative healthcare services or returning the next day.

“We know you can’t always plan when you’ll need urgent care,” Gilbert said.

“Evenings are always busy, so if you’re able to come earlier, you’ll have the best chance of being seen that night.”

PHO primary care general manager Wendy Dillon said a patient’s general practice was still the best place for ongoing care.

“When it’s closed, telehealth can also help if you don’t need to be seen in person, and your local pharmacist can help with minor concerns.

“If you’re not sure where to go, Healthline gives free advice any time, day or night.”

Accident and HealthCare and the PHO worked together to make the extended opening hours possible, with support from Health New Zealand.

A new 24-hour urgent healthcare service promised by the coalition Government for Tauranga was previously reported to be delayed until December.

Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell told the Bay of Plenty Times after being re-elected on Saturday that this timing was unrealistic, but he would commit to delivering it in the first 100 days.

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