Three-day stays for mothers and babies now law
Mothers and babies will receive more support in the crucial days after birth, with legislation now passed that will, in future, allow every mother up to three days of inpatient postnatal care, say Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello.
“This is about putting mothers at the heart of decisions about their postnatal care,” Ms Costello says.
“Having time to recover, bond with their baby, and build confidence as a parent can make all the difference, and the choice to be looked after for three days provides mothers with greater flexibility.”
Implementation will be phased over three years so the health system can deliver the increased entitlement safely and sustainably, with three-day stays fully available nationally by 1 July 2029.
Mr Brown says that passing the final stage of the Healthy Futures (3 Day Postnatal Stay) Amendment Bill on the last day of Parliament sitting before the election campaign was a satisfying way to complete the Government’s large legislative programme.
“The coalition Government has delivered significant improvements in healthcare for New Zealanders during this Parliamentary term and this initiative reflects a commitment in the National-New Zealand First coalition agreement.
“I also acknowledge National MP Catherine Wedd who originally introduced the Bill in September last year.
“I am delighted to see it passed, supported by $34.4 million over four years, announced by the Government through Budget 2026.”
The funding will support increased maternity bed capacity and, over time, grow and support the workforce.
Primary maternity services will deliver the initiative, using the current mix of Health New Zealand-operated, community-based and private providers already providing inpatient postnatal care across the maternity system.
