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Story: Veterans’ assistance

Caring for veterans: Queen Mary Hospital

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Caring for veterans: Queen Mary Hospital

Queen Mary Hospital, at Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury, was the first New Zealand hospital specifically for treating war veterans with mental and nervous disorders. These First World War troops are relaxing in its natural hot springs. The facility achieved remarkable results, mainly by treating its patients with respect, sympathy and understanding. This approach was later extended to other patients with mental illnesses, with similar success.

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How to cite this page

Mark Derby, Veterans’ assistance – Medical rehabilitation, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/31972/caring-for-veterans-queen-mary-hospital (accessed 25 June 2026).

Story by Mark Derby, published 14 March 2012.