17 December 2019

Maternity staff and the Christmas Grinch.

Visitors to Whanganui Hospital’s maternity, childrens’ and critical care unit wards may think they’ve stepped into Santa’s workshop this month.

Reindeer, snow and Santa himself – there’s even a Grinch.

Staff have gone to great lengths to spread the festive cheer and put smiles on the faces of patients, whānau and employees alike, by decorating doors and corridors in the Christmas spirit this December.

Every door in the maternity unit is uniquely decorated, with the children’s and CCU wards also looking suitably bright and festive.

Staff from around the hospital have followed suit, with many other wards and administration areas the subject of inter-staff competitions for best-decorated doors and work areas.

Whanganui District Health Board Chief Executive Russell Simpson says it’s heart-warming to see such festive cheer on campus.

“It’s amazing around the hospital to see so many people really getting into the Christmas and festive spirit.

“Especially the efforts of staff in our maternity, kids’ and CCU wards, who have put in so much time to provide welcoming environments for mothers, children, patients and whānau who are in hospital during the Christmas period.”