Up to 1500 adults are getting free dental healthcare this weekend, thanks to an initiative called Smile New Zealand.
Photo: 123RF
Funded by the Southern Cross Health Trust and the Dental Association, the initiative offers free dental work to applicants with a Community Services Card.
The trust's chief executive, Terry Moore, said 83 dentists at 18 practices throughout the country had given their time to provide the free appointments.
Agencies such as Work and Income, night shelters and health centres in high-need areas were informed of the initiative and the appointments were quickly booked out.
Mr Moore said the need was huge, and more free appointments will be offered in November.