Amanda Fergus & Lisa Harris Registered Midwives · LMC · Ellerslie
Birth 8 min read
Writing a birth plan that reflects what you really want
A calm, practical walk-through of your options in Auckland — from pain relief to who is in the room — and how to keep your plan flexible.
Is midwifery care really free in New Zealand?
Yes. For most people who are New Zealand citizens, residents, or otherwise eligible, maternity care with a Lead Maternity Carer is fully funded by the Government — there is no charge for your midwifery care through pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period.
What is a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC)?
Your LMC is the health professional who coordinates your maternity care from early pregnancy until four to six weeks after birth. As midwife LMCs, we provide your antenatal checks, support you through labour and birth, and visit you at home afterwards — bringing in specialists if they are ever needed.
When should I get in touch?
As early as you like — ideally between 8 and 10 weeks. Midwives book up quickly, so reaching out as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed gives you the best chance of securing the care you would like. If you are further along, please still get in touch and we will do our best to help.
Where will I give birth?
We attend births at Auckland City Hospital, one of the largest maternity units in the country, with birthing pools and a full epidural service on site. We will talk through your options together and support the birth that feels right for you and your baby's wellbeing.
Do I still need to see my GP or an obstetrician?
For a healthy, low-risk pregnancy, your midwife can provide all of your routine care. If anything comes up that would benefit from specialist input, we will arrange a referral to an obstetrician and work alongside the hospital team. You are welcome to keep your GP in the loop too.
What happens after my baby is born?
We will visit you at home in the days and weeks following birth — checking on your recovery and your baby, supporting feeding, and being there for the questions that come up. This continues until around six weeks, when we hand over to a Well Child provider such as Plunket.
