Maternity Services in New Zealand

Maternity services in New Zealand are designed to offer women and their families choice in who cares for them and continuity of that care.

The Ministry of Health purchases the service in two parts

Professionals Providing Maternity Care

A midwife, general practitioner or an obstetrician can provide care during pregnancy labour and birth and the post natal period. These professionals are known as Lead Maternity Carers (LMCs). The Ministry of Health pays midwives and GP's on your behalf. Obstetricians may charge a fee.

Maternity Facilities Providers

Maternity hospitals and birthing units. A Birthing facility is a maternity hospital caring for women who expect to have a normal labour and delivery and for all types of postnatal care, even after a caesarean section but you can still plan to transfer to a Birthcare facility for your postnatal care.

Pregnancy and Parenting Education

Your District Health Board purchases antenatal classes for both first time parents and those who have attended before. Classes are fully funded. Birthcare also offers a refresher class for those who have had classes before. Couples are urged to attend.. See classes available

Birthcare facilities (hospitals) are funded by your District Health Board to provide you with free standard care. Birthcare Auckland also offers you a private service assuring you of your own room with en-suite and a range of other services. See room options available