Primary birthing unit opens in central Auckland

Health New Zealand’s first primary birthing unit in central Auckland was officially opened by Associate Health Minister Casey Costello today.

Whānau Ngā Uri, which is located in Parnell, will operate 24/7 and support up to 400 women and their families each year.

“Today marks an important milestone in helping to deliver more choice for women giving birth,” Ms Costello says.

“I want to acknowledge the clinicians, midwives and partners who have worked tirelessly to bring this service to life.”

The new unit provides a calm, home-like, midwifery-led environment, while remaining close to Auckland City Hospital for rapid transfer if specialist care is needed.

“Providing real choice matters. Women should be able to choose the birthing experience that is right for them and their family,” Ms Costello says.

The facility includes three birthing suites – each equipped for water births – and a shared family space. It will be staffed by 10 Health New Zealand midwives, with two onsite at all times. 

The service will deliver acute assessment and support births with both Health New Zealand and community midwives, alongside antenatal and postnatal care including vaccinations, anti-D, iron infusions, and primary assessment.

Metro Auckland is one of New Zealand’s highest-demand maternity areas, with approximately 65 births each day. The introduction of this service provides dedicated primary birth capacity and supports a more distributed model of care.

“This is also a key clinical training environment, with opportunities for midwifery and medical students, as well as structured support for new graduate midwives to build capability in maternity care.”

Women who give birth at the facility will have priority access to stay onsite for their three-day postnatal stay, which is funded by Health NZ and delivered by Birthcare.

Ms Costello says the opening aligns with the Government’s Budget 2026 commitment to improve access to maternity care.

Budget 2026 provides $34.4 million over four years to expand maternity capacity and support the workforce, ensuring all women can access up to three days of funded postnatal care.

“The days following birth can be intense and physically demanding. Mothers need time to recover, bond with their baby, and build confidence — they shouldn’t feel rushed to leave,” she says.

“I’m proud to open this service today, marking a significant boost to maternity care in central Auckland, and a step forward in giving every mother and baby the best possible start.” ...