'Whangai u hau'  Breastfeeding Initiative

'Kai akona tatou Matua ki nga mea o te whangai u.  Me hoki ia tatou pepi ki te Ukaipo. Kaoa Te Tikanga o nga tipuna'

'Let us return to nurturing our babies according to the ways of our ancestors, by sharing the knowledge of breastfeeding'

The West Coast Primary Health Organisation's two breastfeeding advocates assist in improving the health of women and children by helping increase breastfeeding rates.  This is achieved through increasing accurate knowledge within the community, improving access to services and encouraging breastfeeding friendly environments.

Breastfeeding Services, Support and Information

Free Lactation Consultancy Services - International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) provide breastfeeding information and support to women.  Referral can be self-referral or from health/social personnel, appointments are in home or clinic.

Mum4Mum Breastfeeding Supporters - women are trained by the Breastfeeding Advocates to help and support other breastfeeding mothers within their community in a peer counselling voluntary role.  To request Mum4Mum support, contact Nicola or Raewyn.

Other Breastfeeding Groups and Services on the West Coast

Breastfeeding Friendly Workplaces - Claire Robertson - WCDHB

B.A.B.E.S in Arms (Babies and Breastfeeding Education and Support) - women sharing information, support and friendship. 

For more information about free breastfeeding support and services, please contact the PHO Office - 03 768 6182 or:

Greymouth/Hokitika areas

Nicola Harris - Breastfeeding Advocate, 027 288 0392 or nicola.harris@westcoastpho.org.nz  

Westport/Reefton areas

Raewyn Johnson IBCLC, RGON - Breastfeeding Advocate, 027 288 0269 or raewyn.johnson@westcoastpho.org.nz