18 Nov 2017

Nearly $150k spent on Waikato DHB investigation

2:12 pm on 18 November 2017

An investigation into overspending by the former head of the Waikato District Health Board has cost the hospital almost $150,000.

Waikato Hospital

Waikato Hospital Photo: Waikato DHB / Facebook

Nigel Murray resigned in October after an investigation showed he'd spent $218,000 on expenses over three years.

Waikato District Health Board Chief Executive Dr Nigel Murray.

Waikato District Health Board Chief Executive Dr Nigel Murray. Photo: RNZ/ Joanne O'Brien

Papers released by the DHB under the Official Information Act show that the investigation into Dr Murray cost another $145,000 - including $55,000 for an investigator.

The DHB estimated about 950 staff hours were spent collating and compiling information relating to Dr Murray's expenses, at a cost of around $69,000.

An additional $10,000 went towards forensic investigation costs and another $10,000 was spent on public relations advice