Top Clinics for Brain Vascular Imaging in NZ

Looking for the best clinics for brain vascular imaging in New Zealand? Here’s a quick breakdown of top providers offering advanced imaging techniques like MRI Angiography and CT scans to assess conditions such as aneurysms, blockages, and malformations. Key criteria include advanced equipment (e.g., 3T MRI scanners), expert radiologists, and patient-centric services.

Highlights:

• Trinity MRI, Auckland: Specialised in neuroimaging with 3T MRI and advanced techniques like spectroscopy and perfusion imaging. Offers same-day reporting and a patient-focused environment.
• Pacific Radiology: Nationwide network with 47 locations. Provides 3T MRI, PET-CT, and CT scans with extended hours and high patient satisfaction rates.
• I-MED Radiology NZ: Covers the North Island with 19 clinics offering MRI, CT, and Doppler ultrasound. Online booking and a team of neuroradiologists ensure accessibility and expertise.
• Midland Cardiovascular Services, Hamilton: Focuses on interventional neuroradiology for treating conditions like aneurysms and stroke. Located at Braemar Hospital.
• Radiology Clinics NZ Directory: A searchable tool listing over 300 providers across NZ, helping you find clinics by region, service type, and reviews.

Quick Comparison:

Choose a clinic that aligns with your needs based on location, services, and expertise. For more options, visit Radiology Clinics NZ.

Dr Catherine Morgan: Preventing Dementia

sbb-itb-16a0ccc

1. Trinity MRI, Newmarket, Auckland

Trinity MRI stands out as New Zealand’s only dedicated neuroimaging provider, focusing solely on brain, spine, and vascular imaging. While general radiology clinics offer a wide range of scans, Trinity’s specialisation enables them to tackle the complexities of cerebral blood vessel imaging with precision and expertise.

Equipped with a Philips 3.0T MRI scanner, Trinity provides high-resolution MR angiography alongside advanced imaging techniques like spectroscopy, perfusion imaging, tractography, functional MRI (fMRI), and quantitative volumetric imaging. Their commitment to accuracy is evident in their rigorous reporting process. Each scan is first reviewed by a subspecialty-trained consultant radiologist and then independently assessed by a second consultant before the final report is issued. This meticulous approach is paired with same-day reporting, allowing specialists to respond without delay.

"All studies are supervised, tailored to each patient, and reported on the same day. Your study will then be second-reported by an independent consultant, before a final report is issued." – Trinity MRI

Trinity also places a strong emphasis on patient comfort and communication. Their single-modality setup provides a quiet, focused environment, free from the busyness of larger centres. During scans, patients are closely monitored, with real-time communication available through an intercom. For added convenience, post-scan images can be accessed via the MyRad mobile app. Patients who experience claustrophobia or anxiety are encouraged to inform the clinic in advance to arrange sedation. Referring specialists, including neurologists, can easily coordinate through Trinity’s "Information for Doctors" portal.

2. Pacific Radiology, Multi-Region Network

Pacific Radiology provides accessible brain vascular imaging services across New Zealand. As part of the RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group – the largest private radiology provider in the country – their network spans 47 locations, from Waikato to Southland, and performs over 1 million scans annually. This extensive reach ensures advanced imaging services are available nationwide.

Their offerings include 3T MRI, advanced CT, PET-CT, and interventional radiology, all tailored for cerebral vascular assessments. The CT scanners, in particular, stand out for their precision in evaluating cerebral vasculature. Dr. Ian Best, Managing Radiologist, highlights this capability:

"Our new CT scanner has advanced cardiovascular imaging capability, including fantastic high-resolution assessment of coronary arteries in the heart, and for arteries in the brain including evaluating cerebral aneurysms, post-operative aneurysm repairs, and vascular malformations."

In April 2026, Pacific Radiology introduced the first permanent PET-CT service in the Otago and Southland region at its Dunedin Central clinic. This development eliminated the need for patients in these areas to travel long distances for this level of care.

The network prioritises patient comfort and convenience. Many sites are equipped with wide-bore scanners, quieter imaging sequences, and two-way communication systems. Patients can even enjoy music during scans and access their results through the myImaging portal. Additionally, the Christchurch Forté clinic offers extended MRI hours, operating from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, Monday through Thursday. With 90% of patients stating they would recommend the service, feedback consistently highlights positive experiences.

Pacific Radiology employs over 170 specialist radiologists, including experts in neuroradiology and vascular imaging, such as Dr. Doug Braithwaite and Dr. Sam Bae. This expertise supports the country’s commitment to high-quality brain vascular imaging. The network also partners with the New Zealand Brain Research Institute on neurodegenerative research, including brain tau PET scan studies that focus on Parkinson’s disease dementia.

3. I MED Radiology Network, Selected North Island Locations

I-MED Radiology NZ runs 19 clinics across the North Island, covering Waikato, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, and Taranaki. This setup makes it easier for patients to access specialist brain vascular imaging without needing to travel to Auckland.

The network provides a range of vascular imaging services. CTA and CTV are used to diagnose arterial dissections and venous sinus thrombosis, while MRI is available for more intricate neurological cases. For stroke assessments, vascular ultrasound using Colour and Pulsed Doppler is offered. According to I-MED Radiology Network:

"Many strokes are caused by abnormal blood flow in the neck. These are easily examined with colour Doppler ultrasound."

In Hamilton, PET/CT imaging is available at the Anglesea Medical Complex. The table below highlights key clinics and their services across the regions.

The team includes 31 specialist radiologists, among them neuroradiologists skilled in central nervous system pathology. After imaging, reports are sent directly to the referring doctor to ensure prompt follow-up and treatment planning. For surgical cases, radiologists can assist by providing pre-operative vascular mapping to guide surgical teams.

Booking is straightforward – patients can schedule online with a doctor’s referral, choosing their preferred clinic, date, and time. However, those with implants like pacemakers or cerebral aneurysm clips should notify the clinic in advance, as these could impact MRI suitability.

4. Midland Cardiovascular Services, Interventional Neuroradiology

Located at Braemar Hospital in Hamilton, Midland Cardiovascular Services (MCVS) focuses on interventional neuroradiology. This involves minimally invasive procedures to address complex vascular issues in the brain and spine, often avoiding the need for open surgery. Unlike imaging clinics that only diagnose, MCVS provides immediate, hands-on solutions for intricate cerebral conditions.

"We have served the wider Waikato area for over 20 years." – Midland Cardiovascular Services

The range of services offered includes mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke, endovascular coiling, flow diversion, and stenting for aneurysms. MCVS also handles vascular embolisation for arteriovenous malformations and fistulas, while peripheral angiograms are used to assess narrowed arteries. The choice of embolisation agents is tailored to the patient’s specific condition.

While other facilities may focus on imaging, MCVS specialises in urgent, interventional care. Their team operates within a multidisciplinary setup, including interventional radiologists like Dr Allan Thomas, Dr Zubayr Zaman, Dr Michael Swarbrick, and Dr Xavier Kos, as well as a neurosurgeon and vascular surgeons. The procedures are supported by Braemar Hospital’s advanced infrastructure, which features 200 credentialled surgeons, physicians, and anaesthetists working across 11 state-of-the-art operating theatres.

All treatments at MCVS require a referral. Patients must first consult with a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or stroke physician to determine the best course of action. For those undergoing contrast-based procedures, it’s important to monitor for allergic reactions for seven days post-procedure and reach out to MCVS or a doctor if symptoms arise.

5. Radiology Clinics NZ Directory

If you’re looking for more clinic options, Radiology Clinics NZ is a helpful resource. It provides a directory of over 300 radiology providers across New Zealand, including 206 independent clinics and major networks like Pacific Radiology (43 locations), I-MED Radiology NZ (19 locations), and Canopy Imaging (22 locations). For specialised or urgent care, the directory also lists 23 hospital-based radiology departments. Each entry highlights clinics equipped for high-resolution brain vascular imaging services.

The directory allows you to filter options by region, city, or service type. You can easily find clinics offering advanced tools such as 3 Tesla MRI and Doppler Ultrasound, which are essential for accurate brain vascular imaging. Each listing includes the clinic’s physical address, direct links to the provider, and a "Top Rated Listings" section featuring public reviews.

Patient feedback often mentions excellent customer service and efficient staff, though some reviews note occasional delays. You can also check whether a clinic is independent or part of a network; network providers often have multiple branches, making follow-up appointments more convenient. This tool simplifies the process of finding highly rated imaging services across the country.

For those new to this process, the directory’s Guides section explains the various types of scans and offers tips on what to expect during your appointment. It’s a great resource for anyone navigating brain vascular imaging services for the first time.

Comparison Table

Each clinic has its own approach to brain vascular imaging. Some focus on advanced MRI technology, others prioritise accessibility across the country, while certain clinics specialise in interventional treatments. Here’s a quick comparison of their key features:

Each clinic brings something distinct to the table. For patients outside major centres, Pacific Radiology and I-MED Radiology NZ provide the broadest geographic reach. Meanwhile, Midland Cardiovascular Services focuses on minimally invasive neurovascular treatments, making it a standout choice for those needing interventional care.

When it comes to imaging technology, Trinity MRI and Pacific Radiology both utilise 3 Tesla scanners, which deliver higher resolution and finer detail compared to standard 1.5T units. This makes them ideal for cases requiring intricate imaging.

For those wanting more options or searching for clinics in less-serviced areas, the Radiology Clinics NZ directory is invaluable. With over 300 providers listed, it allows users to filter by region, service type, and patient reviews, helping you find the right match for your brain vascular imaging requirements.

Conclusion

When selecting a clinic, prioritise one with high-field 3T MRI technology, subspecialist neuroradiologists, and a streamlined process for accepting referrals (including ACC). Clear and efficient communication of results is also essential, especially for diagnosing complex conditions like strokes, transient ischaemic attacks, and aneurysms. These elements, highlighted in our clinic comparisons, can help you make an informed decision.

Patient reviews can offer insights beyond what clinic websites provide. They often reveal details about actual wait times, staff interactions, and whether the clinic environment feels calm and supportive.

To explore your options, visit Radiology Clinics NZ. Their directory lets you compare clinics by region, service offerings, and patient ratings, making it easier to find the right fit for your needs.

FAQs

Do I need a referral for brain vascular imaging in NZ?

In New Zealand, getting brain vascular imaging often requires a referral from a healthcare professional, particularly for specialised conditions like arterial dissection or venous sinus thrombosis. This referral process helps ensure patients receive the most appropriate care and that imaging is used where it’s genuinely needed.

Which scan is better for me: MRA, CTA, or Doppler ultrasound?

The type of scan that’s best for you will depend on what your doctor is looking to examine.

• MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography): This is great for getting detailed images of the brain and blood vessels. It doesn’t use radiation, making it a safer option for some patients.
• CTA (Computed Tomography Angiography): This scan uses X-rays to create fast and detailed cross-sectional images of blood vessels.
• Doppler ultrasound: A non-invasive method often used for vascular studies. However, it’s not commonly chosen for imaging the brain.

Each method has its strengths, and your doctor will recommend the one that suits your specific needs.

What should I check before booking an MRI (implants, claustrophobia, contrast)?

Before scheduling an MRI, let the clinic know if you have any metallic implants or medical devices, such as pacemakers, neuro-stimulators, aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, or metal fragments in your eyes. It’s also important to mention if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or using medicated skin patches. If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety, talk to the clinic about available support options. For scans involving contrast, check ahead for any fasting or preparation requirements.

Related Blog Posts

• Top Clinics Offering High-Resolution Imaging in NZ
• Top PET Scan Clinics in NZ
• Best Clinics for 3D Ultrasound in NZ
• Top Cardiac MRI Clinics in New Zealand

Author: Radiology Clinics