Fundraising's underway for a potentially lifesaving surgical robot in the Manawatu

There's currently only one surgical robot in the country - meaning patients travel to Auckland for procedures.

After launching the fundraiser this week, Palmerston North Hospital's already received thousands of dollars in donations.

Spokesperson, Shivarn Stewart, says surgeries the robot can offer are one of a kind.

She says there's usually fewer complications and faster recovery times because the incisions are small.