Well-designed hospital gardens not only provide restorative and pleasant nature views, but also can reduce stress and improve clinical outcomes. They tend to reduce complications, pain medication and the length of stays. Views of plants and greenery lower blood pressure, muscle tension and reduce depression. A garden also offers healthcare employees a pleasant escape from workstress and clinical spaces. So when the new four-story, $320M surgical and medical hospital building, called Tōtara Haumaru was being planned for North Shore Hospital, Rotary combined with the Well Foundation and other sponsors to transform the 450 m2 central space, overlooked by three levels of wards, into a beautiful green space of more than 500 plants some of which will grow to 10 metres.
PDG Peter Garnett outlined to our last meeting the journey Rotary took in raising its $100k contribution towards the project and the partnerships involved. Opened last year, the concept is expected to last for 30-40 years. Staff have a secluded area at the back of the area to enjoy and the plants are professionally maintained.
The North Shore Hospital picks up overload from the wider Auckland and Northland areas and the atmosphere and aesthetics created are of huge benefit to patients, visitors and staff alike. See https://fb.watch/xEYX0OB3cu/ A great example of Rotary in action.
Peter was introduced and thanked by Linda Agnew.