23/09/2026
RANZCOG and the College of Midwives acknowledge the passing of the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) (3-Day Postnatal Stay) Amendment Bill, which gives mothers and babies the right to remain in a postnatal facility for a minimum of three days, after giving birth – unless they choose to leave earlier.
Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora has announced that implementation will be phased over three years, with the full entitlement available nationally to all mothers from 1 July 2029. There is no immediate change to postnatal care arrangements.
https://www.midwife.org.nz/news/phased-roll-out-of-3-day-postnatal-stay-essential-for-safe-delivery-of-care/