A man is facing criminal charges after he smashed windows at a sexual health clinic in the latest incident of aggression at a public hospital.
By Jimmy Ellingham of RNZ
The man is due in the Hamilton District Court next month over the attack on August 17.
A witness, who requested anonymity, said he arrived at the Waikato Hospital clinic about 11.30am that day to find it damaged and staff shaken.
The witness said the reception area was closed, because most of its windows were broken, and patients were waiting in the hallway.
"Windows were already boarded up when I arrived," the witness said. "One of the admin staff-receptionists told me that a patient had attended the service about an hour ago, appeared agitated having to wait, then after a short while started smashing windows."
This comes after RNZ revealed a case of intimidating behaviour at Palmerston North Hospital's emergency department, where security officers appeared powerless to intervene.
RNZ has previously reported that there are growing numbers of incidents of violence and intimidation in New Zealand hospitals.
The witness to the aftermath of the Waikato incident said the clinic was staffed mostly by female administrators and nurses, and the incident left them clearly rattled.
Health New Zealand's group director for operations in Waikato, Stephanie Doe, said staff at the clinic followed safety procedures, including contacting security and police.
"No patients or staff were injured during the incident. Patients who were present at the time were supported by staff and were able to continue with their appointments," Doe said.
"Staff received immediate support following the incident, and a review of the event and related security processes is being undertaken."
She said Health NZ's priority was the safety of its patients and staff.
Police confirmed they were called to the scene after reports of a man damaging property.
They said a 36-year-old man was arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour, wilful damage and intentional damage. He would appear in court on September 7.
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