The review recommends a mix of solutions to help the DHB improve its financial sustainability. This includes tighter financial management of key operating costs, reducing the depreciation rate, leasing rather that owning some of their facilities, and reviewing their future facilities building plan.
Coleman noted that the deficits are nearly completely non-cash deficits and while they do need to be solved over time, they don't affect the DHB's operational activities in the short to medium term.
"Moving the DHB to a more sustainable financial position needs to be the key priority for the new board," said Coleman.
The government has supported Canterbury DHB since the earthquakes through providing an additional $86m to help meet the costs of earthquake recovery, as well as $76m in temporary relief from capital charge payments on funds held by the Crown.
An extra $20m is also being provided as part of a package of initiatives to boost mental health services in Canterbury. It is also delivering close to $1b of new hospital facilities.
Canterbury DHB's annual budget is currently $1.4b - an increase of $331m over the past eight years.
The DHB's seven elected members were returned in this year's local body election in October, with the balance made up by four government appointees, including chair Murray Cleverley and his deputy Mark Solomon.