Dr Stewart Hastie
(1957–2017)

Stewart Hastie was born in Christchurch, New Zealand. He completed medical training at the University of Canterbury and the University of Otago, graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery in 1980. He embarked on his career in obstetrics and gynaecology at Christchurch Women’s Hospital. During his training, he completed diplomas in O&G and child health.

Stewart went to the UK in 1985, initially to the Queen Mother’s Hospital in Glasgow, where he obtained Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG). He returned to Christchurch as Tutor Specialist in 1988. In 1989, he was appointed as a specialist at Waikato Hospital, Hamilton. With his colossal energy and drive, Stewart eventually set up a successful private practice in addition to his public work. An early innovator and adaptor, he loved gadgets of all sorts, from computers, cars and phones, to new surgical techniques. He was a keen and well-liked teacher.

Stewart obtained Fellowship of the New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in 1989. Following the amalgamation of the Australian and New Zealand Colleges, he was admitted as a Fellow of RANZCOG, as well as RCOG, in 1998.

Stewart was key in the evolution of assisted reproductive technology in Waikato’s branch of Fertility Associates. IVF initially started at the Anglesea Clinic, then, with the availability of public funding, at Waikato Hospital. Eventually the clinic returned to Anglesea. The clinic grew from 50 cycles per year to more than 400, with a staff of more than 20.

A keen mountaineer and yachtsman, Stewart was South Island International Moth junior champion in 1974. In latter years, he participated in Coast to Coast multisport competitions, crossing the South Island running, kayaking and cycling. A serious water skiing injury prevented his participation in more strenuous activities and his aquatic enthusiasms were confined to model boat building, an interest he had for many years.

With his energy, huge grin, engaging personality and sense of humour, he built a large and successful practice, and was a much admired and respected colleague. He joyfully described himself as ‘Hastie by name, hasty by nature’, but although quick to make up his mind, his decisions were well-considered and precise.

Stewart’s last three years were marred by health issues. He had just stopped his public hospital commitments when he became ill and was admitted to Waikato Hospital, where he died on 15 May 2017. A large funeral was testament to his following among health colleagues and the community.

Stewart is survived by his wife Vicky, children Rebecca, Sarah and Marc, and three grandchildren.