Media Release
Waitaki MP
Jacqui Dean
14 March 2018
Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean says she will support Wanaka mothers as they petition Parliament for improved midwife services in
the area.
“There’re growing concerns amongst Upper Clutha families at the lack of maternity services in the area and I want to do
all that I can to support this community.
“This includes assisting in the launching of a petition calling for improved services, along with arranging a meeting
with the Southern District Heath Board so that local concerns can be heard.
“The Wanaka area is the most remote from a base hospital of any community in New Zealand and that poses massive safety
concerns for expectant mothers.
“That coupled with the area’s huge on-going population growth and I believe Wanaka has a strong case for its own
standalone birthing unit.
“The Southern DHB has promised a maternity hub, but local mothers tell me a facility that’s only open during the day is
not sufficient to address local concerns.
“To that end, I will also endeavour to set up a meeting between the DHB and local mothers to ensure the community’s
views are heard and understood.”
Mrs Dean met with concerned mothers in Wanaka yesterday (March 13) and said that she was ready to do what she could to
support them in securing improved maternity services for the Upper Clutha.