A response from the Mental Health Minister - as Health NZ admits failures around Canterbury's in-patient mental health services

A review began after a Hillmorton Hospital patient on leave murdered a woman on a street in 2022 -- and during the review, another patient murdered his employer.

It's found staffing shortages and ineffective governance -- and Health New Zealand's accepted all recommendations.

Matt Doocey says there were clearly systemic failings.

He says he's made it clear to health agencies, public and patient safety must be ensured.