Evolution Healthcare declared that they intend to close the Huntly Birth Unit as of 31st October 2023.

Birthcare Huntly provides many services that meet the needs of local whanau who consist largely of Tangata Whenua and rural hapū māmā. This primary unit provides a welcoming environment for whānau, with a high level of community engagement. Whānau in our community come to our unit for free pregnancy testing, information and contact details of LMC midwives. They begin their maternity care here. There are now five LMC midwives based in this community and our antenatal clinics are all in the adjoining area of Birthcare Huntly. The unit supports a family planning outreach clinic space, Tuuhono immunisation clinic and newborn hearing screening. Other services provided on an as-needed basis include Plunket mother’s groups, lactation services and tongue tie clinic.

We now need Te Whatu Ora and Te Aka Whai Ora to prioritise funding to keep this vital service available in our community. The Kahu Taurima ‘first 2000 days of life’ joint approach to maternity and early years plan to “deliver excellent, well connected, easy to navigate, culturally affirming health services for all wāhine and whānau, no matter who they are, and whoever they are, and wherever they are” should encompass this provision of care for our community.

Our best chance is our collective voice. Make noise, let everyone know, Rahui Pokeka deserves maternity care! Help us show how important this unit is to our community.