There's confusion and frustration surrounding the surgical centre sitting empty at Auckland's North Shore Hospital. 

It was originally set to open this month after several delays, but the date has been pushed back with no opening in sight.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says the scope of the project has changed - and has only just passed council consenting.

"We're hoping to open it in the next few months, but that's why we're still here with the building that can't quite be used."

LISTEN ABOVE

• Staffing, funding issues blamed for North Shore Hospital building remaining unused
• "Major challenge" to open and staff new Auckland surgical centre