New Zealand's roll-out of extended free mammograms for Kiwi women has begun

Those in Nelson Marlborough are the first to benefit -- the district's maximum screening age has risen from 69 to 74.

That's ahead of a national roll-out late next year, which will result in about 60-thousand more free mammograms annually.

Breast Cancer Foundation Chair, Justine Smyth is celebrating -- after campaigning eight years for the change.

She says the move will undoubtedly save lives.