Baby, dental and mental healthcare

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Find out about what services Whangārei has to offer when you are having a baby, need dental care and support around mental health.

Having a baby

Maternity care is free in the public system from diagnosis to pre and post-natal care for mother and baby. In New Zealand, most babies are born in hospital, although it’s equally acceptable to have the baby at home. There is no charge for the hospital stay. 

Many child health services are free for residents under New Zealand’s public health system. These include immunisation against serious disease, regular eyesight and hearing checks at school and visits to the doctor. 

The Whangārei Hospital Maternity Service is both a primary and secondary facility. Usually women will be cared for by their Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) in labour with the hospital midwives supporting your LMC in the delivery suite. The hospital midwives also look after women who are under secondary obstetric care due to a more complicated pregnancy. They will also care for you in the postnatal ward prior to your discharge home. Here is a database of midwives practising in Northland.

Plunket is New Zealand's largest provider of support services for the development, health and wellbeing of children under five. Plunket works together with families and communities, to ensure the best start for every child.

Dentists

Children get free basic dental care until they’re 18, but otherwise dentists aren’t part of the free public health system. Ask at your school for information when you enrol your children. Dentists in NZ are governed by the professional NZ Dental Association. 

Mental health & counselling services

There is a range of mental health and counselling services available in the District. Northland DHB Mental Health provides a range of services and you can also talk to your General Practioner (doctor) or contact the Citizen Advice Bureau for a list of service providers.

Healthline

if you are feeling unwell – but not sure whether you need to see a doctor, if you need some urgent advice about a family member or friend who’s sick, or are on holiday and want to know where the nearest doctor or pharmacy is, call Healthline 0800 611 116 for free advice from trained registered nurses 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Mental Health & Wellbeing

If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or suicidal, please get help today; the Mental Health Foundation Mauri Tu Mauri Ora of New Zealand works towards creating a society free from discrimination, where all people enjoy positive mental health & wellbeing. 

Ministry of Health Manatau Hauora

Find out about the New Zealand Heath system. 

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