Probe launched as Waikato ED patient dies after 9-hour wait

Tuesday, 30 June 2026

Waikato Hospital will investigate the death of a patient who died in a toilet after waiting about nine hours for treatment at the Emergency Department.

A source, who wished to remain anonymous, said a man of unknown age died overnight after a lengthy wait in an crowded waiting room.

He was found unresponsive in a waiting room toilet, and attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

The emergency department had been struggling with high demand, and the Government needed to address the strain on the health system, the source said.

A statement issued by Health Minister Simeon Brown said there would be a 'rapid clinical review' to establish what happened.

The statement did not respond to criticism that emergency departments needed better resourcing, saying it would not be appropriate to comment on the circumstances of the death while Health New Zealand's review was underway.

'I have asked to be kept closely informed of the rapid clinical review's findings, and I have been clear that the family must be supported and kept fully informed every step of the way,“ Brown said.

'My priority is ensuring the family and loved ones are supported at this difficult time, while Health New Zealand carries out its rapid clinical review.'

Waikato Hospital Medical Director of Medicine Ian Martin said Health New Zealand was investigating the death, which had also been referred to the Coroner.

He said a clinical review was underway to identify any immediate actions for improvement and would be completed this week.

A longer-term Serious Adverse Event Review, which would identify any lessons for staff, had also begun and was expected to be completed within two months.

'We would like to offer our sympathies to the family of the deceased. We have spoken with them this morning and we are continuing to offer them support.'