Health New Zealand is patting itself on the back over improving three of five health targets - since the last quarter

It says the data shows steady progress in shortening ED stays, increasing children immunisation, and providing faster access to cancer treatment.

Interim Chief Executive, Dr Dale Bramley, is putting it down to initiatives like hospital transit lounges, a Canterbury ED observation unit - and 10 newly funded cancer medicines.

Bramley says although wait times for elective surgery and first specialist assessment are still a challenge, it's encouraging seeing improvements in districts such as Waikato.