Children's health
Trusted healthcare for tamariki in Rotorua
At Ruatahi Medical Centre, we provide friendly, reassuring healthcare for tamariki and young people at every stage of childhood.
Our experienced team takes the time to listen, explain what is happening and help whānau understand the next steps. Whether your child needs support with a short-term illness, an injury or an ongoing health concern, we are here to help.
Ruatahi Medical Centre is open from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
How we can help
We support tamariki and young people with a wide range of health needs, including:
- Coughs, colds and viral illnesses
- Skin infections and rashes
- Minor injuries and accidents
- Childhood immunisations
- Routine health checks
- Ear, nose and throat concerns
- Asthma and other breathing concerns
- Ongoing and long-term health conditions
When to seek care for your baby
You know your pēpi (baby) best. If something does not seem right, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.
Contact a healthcare provider urgently if your baby:
- Is under three months old and has a fever
- Is struggling to breathe or feed
- Is drinking much less than usual
- Has fewer wet nappies or other signs of dehydration
- Is unusually sleepy, floppy or difficult to wake
- Has ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea
- Develops a rash and appears unwell
- Is becoming more unwell or you are concerned for any reason
A temperature above 38°C is considered a fever. Babies under three months old with a fever should always be assessed urgently. Babies under six months with vomiting or diarrhoea should also receive prompt medical care because they can become dehydrated quickly.
If your child is seriously unwell, struggling to breathe, unresponsive or floppy, call 111. When Ruatahi Medical Centre is closed, you can also call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.
Childhood immunisations
Keeping your child’s immunisations up to date helps protect them from serious illnesses.
Free routine immunisations begin at six weeks and continue throughout childhood. If you are unsure which vaccinations your child needs or whether they have missed any, please speak with our team. We can check their records and help arrange any immunisations that are due.
All immunisations on the National Immunisation Schedule are free for children under 18, regardless of their visa or citizenship status.