An estimated 2500 people showed up to protest proposed funding cuts to Oamaru hospital today.
Waitaki mayor Gary Kircher said he was very pleased at the community's support.
Marchers ranged from families to the elderly, which Mr Kircher said sent a message about the community's attitude to the local health service.
He said they were very passionate about the primary level hospital, and even though it was a basic service, the community did not want any further cuts.
Expecting residents to go to Dunedin for specialist care due to funding cuts was unacceptable, he said.
The march was sparked by the Southern District Health Board and its funding priorities.
It is trying to cut 5% from its contract with Waitaki District Health Services (WDHS), the council-owned company that owns and operates Oamaru Hospital and provides health services in the district.
Waitaki district councillor councillor Melanie Tavendale said the message to the Health Board was that the community had built their hospital, fought for it, and were not about to let it go.
Ms Tavendale said she was not surprised at the turn-out, and she was very proud of the community for making its voice heard.
It was unfair to have to travel to Dunedin for specialist care, she said.
- Newstalk
