After the baby's arrival

The early weeks with your pēpi are a time of learning, adjustment and connection.
We recommend Healthify as trusted, New Zealand–based sources of clear, evidence-based information to support you in caring for your newborn.

👉 Breastfeeding topics: https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/b/breastfeeding

👉 Breastfeeding videos – getting started: https://healthify.nz/hauora-wellbeing/b/videos-getting-started

👉 Newborn and baby care topics:
https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/b/baby-care

Immunisation helps protect your pēpi from serious and preventable illnesses. In Aotearoa New Zealand, vaccines are free and given at key stages to protect your baby when they are most vulnerable.

Your baby’s first immunisations are due at 6 weeks, followed by 3 months, 5 months, 12 months and 15 months.

👉 Childhood immunisation (Healthify):
https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/i/immunisation-tamariki

Immunisations are usually given at your GP practice. If you have questions, talk to your LMC, GP, practice nurse or Well Child provider.

It’s always okay to ask for support. Contact your LMC, GP, Plunket or Well Child provider if you are concerned about your baby or your own wellbeing.

You can also call for free advice anytime if you are unsure:

• PlunketLine (0800 933 922) for parenting and baby care support [plunket.org.nz]
• Healthline (0800 611 116) for health advice about you or your baby [healthnz.govt.nz]

In an emergency, call 111.

Early parenting can be rewarding but also tiring and overwhelming at times. Support is available — you don’t have to do this alone.

• Your LMC will support you until around 4–6 weeks
• You will be referred to a Well Child / Tamariki Ora provider (e.g. Plunket)
• Local parenting groups and services can help you connect with others

👉 Well Child Tamariki Ora (Health NZ):
https://www.healthnz.govt.nz/health-topics/pregnancy-maternity/pregnancy-birth-and-children-services/well-child-tamariki-ora/well-child-tamariki-ora-visits