Budget 2026: Mothers can stay longer in hospital after giving birth
Thursday, 28 May 2026
Mothers will be given the choice to stay for at least three days in hospital or birthing units after their baby is born.
The Government has allocated $34 million allocated from the Budget to fund longer stays.
The Government adopted a member’s bill in October last year, but was criticised during the select committee process, with concerns that the maternity system would not have the resourcing for the increased care.
Currently post-natal care is funded for up to 48 hours after giving birth - this will extend to 72 hours, or longer if the need arises.
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The bill also requires the lead maternity carer to let the mother know what she is eligible for.
Health Minister Simeon Brown said it would better support mothers and babies in the critical days following birth.
The funding is a win for NZ First, with extended care a commitment made in coalition agreements.
Associate Health Minister Casey Costello is the minister responsible for the bill, who said at the time it was “a practical and compassionate step” that put women and their wellbeing at the centre of New Zealand’s health system.
“By guaranteeing every woman up to three days to rest, recover, and bond with their baby, women will have the choice to be where they feel most comfortable.”
Midwifery Employee Representation & Advisory Service (MERAS) co-leader Caroline Conroy welcomed the funding but said it could put pressure on secondary and tertiary maternity services where there are not local primary maternity units available.
“Funding must be made available to support the build of additional primary maternity facilities where these are needed.
“All whānau in Aotearoa should have access to a primary birthing unit close to their home.”
Other targeted health initiatives in this Budget include establishing a national specialist paediatric palliative care service, lowering the eligibility of bowel screening from 58 to 56, strengthening cyber protection, investment in ambulances and increasing mileage rates for home and community support workers in the wake of the fuel crisis.
The Health system will get $680m for capital spending, to go towards hospital upgrades at Whangarei, Tauranga, Hawke's Bay, and Palmerston North.