Starship Hospital has confirmed nurse shortages forced some cancer treatment delays - but says things are business as usual. 

It's delayed about 20 chemotherapy cycles a few days, out of up to 600.

Health New Zealand Auckland Group Operations Director Dr Mike Shepherd says as usual, they've sought support across the organisation. 

"At times of very high demand, very high staff sickness and so on, we've had to make some adjustments." 

He says he's confident in their recruitment plans, and safe, high-quality cancer care. 

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