Bringing healthcare closer to home could be on the horizon for Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago

Health New Zealand is investigating ways to deliver more locally based outpatient clinics, strengthen mental health and addiction services and improve access to care across the region.

Executive Regional Director Dr Pete Watson says the goal is to provide greater health services locally and reduce travel burdens in one of New Zealand's fastest-growing areas.

He says projections show expanding services could prevent approximately 30 thousand trips every year.