Rethinking Maternal Care for Whanganui and Beyond
A new report has been developed to explore how we might create a more sustainable, community-focused maternal care system for our region, including Whanganui, Ruapehu and Rangitīkei.
Grounded in te ao Māori values, the vision centres on supporting whānau from pregnancy through to early parenting, with a strong focus on the first 2,000 days of a child’s life. This approach recognises the importance of kotahitanga (unity) and aroha (love), placing whānau wellbeing at the heart of care.
A system shaped by community voices
The report brings together insights from across the region, including:
Mums, Dads and whānau
Health professionals and service providers
Community and cultural knowledge holders
This shared kōrero has helped shape a collective vision for a maternal care system that better reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities.
A new model of care
At the centre of the proposal is a redesigned maternal care system, supported by a connected network of services known as the Pā Network.
Rather than relying on a single facility, this model:
Integrates existing services into a cohesive network
Strengthens connections between providers and communities
Creates a central hub for coordination, support and care
This approach aims to make services more accessible, responsive and culturally grounded.
Evidence-led and future-focused
The report combines both quantitative and qualitative data, including:
Regional health and demographic insights
Lived experiences from whānau
Input from practitioners and leaders
It also includes analysis of investment needs and long-term benefits, with early modelling suggesting strong social and economic returns over time.
What happens next
While there is strong evidence supporting this direction, further decisions are needed, particularly around the inclusion of a birthing centre.
The report outlines a staged approach, with:
Immediate opportunities to begin strengthening the network
A longer-term vision that may take up to five years to fully realise
Ongoing evaluation and learning will be key, ensuring the system continues to evolve and improve.
A shared vision
Ultimately, this work is about creating a maternal care system that truly supports whānau, from pregnancy through early childhood.
By working together, and building on the strengths already within our communities, there is a real opportunity to create something that is sustainable, connected and grounded in care.