New ultrasound machine boosts kidney biopsy safety at Tauranga Hospital

Dr Scott Crawford, Brett Fleming (Community Ambassador, Trinity Lands) and David Turner (CEO, Trinity Lands). Photo / Supplied

A new state‑of‑the‑art ultrasound machine is expected to benefit renal patients across Bay of Plenty following a donation from local charitable trust Trinity Lands.

The dedicated machine will enhance Tauranga Hospital’s Kidney Service’s ability to perform diagnostic kidney biopsies, a vital procedure that helps clinicians pinpoint the cause of kidney disease and guide timely, targeted preventative or corrective treatment.

Nephrologist and general physician Dr Scott Crawford said the impact would be immediate and far‑reaching.

“Demand for renal biopsies continues to rise with our growing population and increasingly complex referrals,” he said in a statement from Health New Zealand.

“This donation ensures patients can continue to receive advanced kidney care right here in Tauranga. It’s a big step forward for our community. The new ultrasound technology offers superior image quality, improving accuracy while increasing safety for both patients and clinicians during biopsy procedures.”

Beyond biopsies, Crawford said the equipment enables the Kidney Service to offer additional procedures, including the placement of temporary dialysis catheters, ensuring the service evolves with patient needs.

In 2025, the team completed 51 procedures, with demand growing by about 25% each year.

Trinity Lands chief executive David Turner said supporting the hospital aligned with the organisation’s mission to strengthen the communities in which it operates.

“We trust this equipment will make a meaningful difference for renal patients, helping them receive high‑quality treatment closer to home. At Trinity Lands, we grow to give – this is one small way we can support the wellbeing of our community.”

Chronic kidney disease affects an estimated 10% of New Zealanders, with Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities experiencing disproportionately high rates, Health NZ said.

With related conditions like diabetes and hypertension also on the rise, early detection and intervention were crucial to slowing disease progression.

Crawford said the donation reflected a shared vision for better health outcomes.