A warning that stopgap issues at an Auckland hospital is a sign of bigger issues

Since May, North Shore Hospital has a 20-bed ward full of people - with no medical reason to be there.

It's for patients who need low level care and have nowhere else to go.

Aged Care Association Chief Executive Tracey Martin says many will be people in aged care.

She says a report published last year shows it's an issue set to grow.

Martin says if nothing changes nine in 10 hospital beds will be filled by people over 65, in the next 20 years.