Motiti Island is to get its own flying doctor service in what is believed to be a New Zealand first.
The service, which is due to take flight next month, is expected to save islanders almost $200 per doctor's visit.
Ngati Kahu Hauora, with support from Te Awanui Hauora and Western Bay Primary Health Organisation, is starting the service in response to requests from islanders and their mainland-based families.
GP Dr Jethro Leroy, a practice nurse and an administrator will have their first flight to the island in an Island Air Safaris' Cessna 172 or 206 on February 13 to offer low-cost consultations and provide treatment.
It is expected to be the first of many trips which will help the population of about 50 have their health needs met.
Ngati Kahu Hauora manager Judy Harper said everyone involved was brimming with excitement.
"Everyone is jumping out of their seats to get there," Mrs Harper said.
"The people have been calling out to us for about a year for this service. They are no different to people over here on the mainland.
"They have their own health issues that impact on their lives."
She said the islanders were aged from newborn to the elderly and with that Dr Leroy will be presented with a vast range of medical issues.
He will carry out consultations and prescribe medication - taking over a basic pharmacy as well as a consulting kit.
Anyone requiring further treatment would be brought back to Tauranga, Mrs Harper said.
She said they would keep the service low-cost and affordable to islanders, especially as Te Awanui Hauora is a not-for-profit organisation.
"To get to the doctor's before they would have to come to the mainland and that would cost them $80 just for the transport," Mrs Harper said.
Ngati Kahu Hauora offers a similar clinic with Te Awanui Hauora on Matakana Island where Dr Leroy travels out by barge.
That service has been running for three years and its success has helped set up the Motiti Island operation.
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