After relocating from Bank St earlier in the year, the new White Cross Whangarei has been officially opened by a past employee - Health Minister, Dr Jonathan Coleman.
Dr Coleman cut the ribbon at the centre yesterday and said it was a great addition to health care services in Whangarei.
"This is a great facility, I know that it's significantly expanded ... a full suite of services, as well as handling all the after hours care for Whangarei and the surrounding area."
About 40 staff and other members of the health sector in Northland gathered for the occasion.
The facility cost $5.6 million and is built on the 4350sq former Mitsubishi Motors site in Reyburn St.
Mr Coleman said he had worked for White Cross in Ponsonby and Glenfield and recalls being sent to Whangarei's White Cross to work one Friday night.
He described clinic manager Jackie Westcott as a "driving force in what we are opening today here".
Ms Westcott said the ceremony "went really well" and they were pleased to have Mr Coleman open the centre.
She said they have been using the facility since the beginning of April and were enjoying the spacious environment.
"The patients love it, the staff like working here."
White Cross chief executive Alistair Sullivan told those at the opening it had been a long journey.
"We've been looking for an alternative site for our service for over two years."
As well as the White Cross facility, the complex contains a pharmacy, dental, x-ray and ultrasound and physiotherapy services plus a cafe.
Manaia Health PHO chief executive Donovan Clarke was among the speakers and said the partnership between Manaia PHO and White Cross was something they cherish.
"It's a place where people come and receive care and they receive love and support."