Steps Being Taken to Reopen MSD Office
Written by John Freer on July 6, 2025
By Stella Pennell
The Ministry of Social Development says efforts are underway to reopen their Thames Service Centre, which has been closed since Monday.
“We are working as quickly as we can to get our site reopened,” says Acting Regional Commissioner, Sharlene Horne.
“We’re working closely with the landlord and staff, and we apologise for any inconvenience to clients.”
Horne says many client appointments already happen by phone, but those needing face-to-face support can visit the Paeroa Service Centre, where Thames-based staff are currently working.
A daily-cleared document drop box is also available at the Thames site for those unable to use online services.
Coromandel MP Scott Simpson says the situation has dragged on, and is calling for urgent action.
“It’s been 18 months — far too long — and frankly a very slow response from MSD,” says Simpson.
With other MSD centres now closed, he says many clients face added hardship travelling to Paeroa.
He says Thames urgently needs a proper, accessible office with private spaces for client conversations.
Alice Thornton On July 8, 2025 at 4:20 pm
This building is not fit for purpose. I will not stand outside the door to converse with a person who is not MSD qualified to try to do MSD business, in all kinds of weather. MSD needs to get into gear and find a fit for purpose, safe building for staff and clients. The WINTEC building is inappropriate. This is unacceptable for a government department to operate in.