Dunstan Hospital is getting into the swing of Christmas with its second annual Christmas Tree Decoration competition. 

Each department at the hospital is responsible for decorating a themed Christmas tree, which is on display in the foyer. 

The public is encouraged to vote for their favourite tree.

Dunstan Hospital/Central Otago Health Services Ltd Chief Executive Kathy de Luc says there are currently 13 decorated Christmas Trees in the foyer of Dunstan Hospital put together by the various departments. 

Department: University of Otago. Theme: “All Creatures Great & Small”. 

“This is the second year we have run the competition and we decided to do it again because of the positive feedback we received from the public and staff last year.

“This is one simple way we can bring a bit of Christmas cheer to what for some may be an anxious time when they visit Dunstan Hospital and the many services located here.

“The competition between the different departments to win is strong. It’s amazing to discover the hidden creative talents in staff that would otherwise go unnoticed. 

Department: Chemotherapy. Theme: “Primo Chemo”

Kathy says there are lovely stories going round the hospital of special votes being made by younger members of the public. 

“The friendly competitive nature provokes conversations between the departments, much banter and many a laugh,” Kathy says. “It creates a great buzz amongst the staff and strengthens our COHSL team spirit. 

“By locating the Christmas trees in the foyer of the hospital and involving the public in the voting, everyone in the community gets to enjoy them and feel a little more connected to our staff and the service we provide. 

Please remember you can also see the trees and vote for your favourite on our Dunstan Health Facebook page if you are unable to make it to the hospital.

Like last year the winner will be determined by public vote. 

“We will be counting the votes on Wednesday 15th December.”

You can view and vote for your favourite Christmas tree here.