Hutt residents will soon have easier access to GPs with the launch of Riverside Medical in late August. It is the first new locally owned practice in the Hutt Valley in seven years, built to serve up to 12,000 patients. 

The opening comes as demand for GP services in the Hutt continues to outgrow the supply of practices. Over 75% of local clinics have closed their books to new patients, with estimates of at least 13,000 residents unenrolled. 

Riverside co-owner and GP Dr Javier Stroud said the clinic was founded in direct response to the access shortage. 

“The Hutt is one of the worst regions in New Zealand for access to specialist GP clinics. We’re here to fill the gap and serve the community.   

“Too many patients are waiting as long as eight weeks to see their doctor.  At Riverside Medical, patients won’t wait that long. Our books are open to all and pricing is very competitive, including free visits to under 14s. 

“We’ve simplified the enrolment process, and we’re taking on pre-enrolments now, leading up to our August opening,” said Stroud. 

Research published by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has labelled the Hutt Valley one of the country’s GP “red zones”, placing it among the worst regions in New Zealand for accessing a GP, and pushing patients to after-hours clinics and ED for routine care.  

Hutt Valley After Hours General Manager, Mark O’Connor, said the opening of Riverside will help ease growing pressure on urgent care services. 

“We regularly see unenrolled patients using after-hours care as a substitute for a regular GP, which creates additional pressure on our team, so it’s encouraging to see a new locally owned practice stepping in to help meet that demand,” said O’Connor. 

Dr Bryan Betty, Board Chair at Tū Ora Compass Health also welcomed the opening of Riverside Medical. 

“Access to primary care has been a significant challenge across the Hutt for some time, so we’re pleased to see increased capacity in the area and improved access to timely care for patients,” said Betty. 

Located opposite Queensgate Mall, Riverside Medical forms part of a growing health precinct, with physiotherapy, dermatology, pharmacy and blood labs all within walking distance. 

Patients can secure a spot with Riverside Medical by pre-enrolling via their website, here: www.riversidemedical.co.nz. 

A “thank you” to Laura Kilworth for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

05/06/26