$4.9M Boost to Maternal Mental Health to Expand Access in Underserved Regions

In a significant step toward improving maternal mental health services in New Zealand, the Government has announced a targeted $4.9 million investment to expand access to specialist care for women and families during and after pregnancy. The funding, unveiled by Associate Minister of Health Matt Doocey, will be directed to four regions that have historically seen underinvestment in this critical area: Waikato, Hawke’s Bay, Mid Central, and the Wellington region.

Supporting Women During a Vulnerable Life Stage

Becoming a parent is often celebrated as a joyful milestone, but for many women and families, pregnancy and early parenthood can bring profound emotional and psychological challenges. Conditions such as perinatal depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder—particularly after birth trauma or stillbirth—can have long-term impacts on the health and wellbeing of mothers and their families.

“This funding will ensure that more women receive timely and appropriate care when they need it most,” said Minister Doocey. “These services can be life-changing not just for the mothers, but for their babies and wider families.”

Addressing Inequity in Access to Care

The regions selected—Waikato, Hawke’s Bay, Mid Central, and Wellington—have been identified as having lower levels of historical investment in maternal mental health services. The new funding aims to address this imbalance by improving equity in service availability across the country.

The $4.9 million allocation will be used to:

• Expand both clinical and non-clinical staff within community-based specialist maternal and infant mental health services.

• Deliver intensive home-based care packages for individuals and families with higher needs.

• Enhance early intervention and follow-up support, particularly for those who have experienced traumatic births or stillbirths.

These services are grounded in evidence showing that holistic and early support during the perinatal period can significantly improve outcomes for both mothers and their children.

Growing the Workforce, Reducing Wait Times

The announcement comes amid broader efforts by the Government to improve access to mental health services and strengthen the health workforce. According to Minister Doocey, Health New Zealand’s frontline mental health workforce has grown by approximately 10% since the current Government came into power.

At the same time, over 80% of people are now being seen within three weeks for specialist mental health services—a major improvement in responsiveness.

“We’re turning the corner on workforce shortages and long wait times,” Doocey noted. “This is especially critical in areas like maternal mental health, where delays in support can have lasting consequences.”

Investing in the Future of Families

The funding also underscores the Government’s commitment to early intervention and community-based care. Maternal mental health support not only improves the emotional wellbeing of mothers but also enhances bonding and developmental outcomes for babies, strengthens family relationships, and reduces the need for more intensive interventions later.

When mothers receive the care they need, it creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.

“This is about building a future where every mother, every baby, and every family has access to the support they deserve,” said Minister Doocey. “Whether it’s you, your child, a friend or a family member, this Government is committed to ensuring help is available when it's needed.”

Looking Forward

As mental health remains a priority on New Zealand’s health agenda, this investment in maternal and infant services represents another meaningful step toward building a more compassionate and resilient healthcare system—one that responds to the real needs of families across every region.