Maternity and newborn — Canterbury

We provide a number of maternity and newborn services in Canterbury, along with community organisations.

On this page

Lead maternity carers and midwives

A lead maternity carer (LMC) is responsible for your care throughout your pregnancy, labour and birth. They also care for you and your pēpi until your pēpi is 6 weeks old.

Lead maternity carers and midwives

Pregnancy and parenting classes (antenatal classes)

We provide free pregnancy and parenting education classes for new parents at a range of locations and days of the week. There are also young parent classes in Christchurch for those under 23 years of age.

We recommend booking before 20 weeks so you are able attend the class of your choice. Your birthing partner or support person is welcome to attend with you.

Antenatal classes

Birth Afterthoughts Clinic

A listening and debriefing service for anyone who have given birth in a Canterbury facility.

Maternity assessment units

For women who have concerns during their pregnancy from 22 weeks onwards.

Maternity clinics

Christchurch Women's Hospital holds maternity clinics for pregnant women.

Maternal fetal medicine unit

For high-risk pregnancy where the mother, baby or both need extra care.

Neonatal service

Special and intensive care for all pēpi (babies) born in the wider Canterbury region including Timaru, Greymouth and Kaikoura.

Maternity nutrition service

A service for people who are using maternity and gynaecology services.

Maternity physiotherapy

Individualised advice about looking after your body after childbirth.

Maternity social work and counselling service

A service at Christchurch Women's Hospital providing advocacy, information and support.

Whāngai Aroha inpatient service

A specialist inpatient service for maternal mental health or eating disorders at Hillmorton Hospital.

Gynaecology

Inpatient, day patient and outpatient treatment for women in Canterbury and specialist services for the South Island.