Dear Community,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the closure of our beloved Birthing Centre. Over the past five years, managing this cherished space has been my privilege and dream job. Our journey has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, and I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve had.
Six years ago, when new owners took over the Birthing Centre, it was showing its age, but it carried with it the rich legacy of over 80 years of love and care. Our shared vision was to modernize and update the facilities while preserving the essence of love and Community that had always been at the heart of this place. With a lot of dedication, we set out to revitalize the space, blending modernity with the heritage of the building, and the results were nothing short of remarkable.
However, just as the Birthing Centre began to flourish, we were confronted with the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Mandates and restrictions hit our vulnerable birthing Community hard, and we suffered the loss of valuable midwives and maternity staff. Despite our best efforts and appeals for support from Te Whatu ora, we faced an uphill battle.
In this moment of closure, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude,
To the owners, Thank you for your unwavering support, trust, and flexibility. You stood by me and supported every effort to improve the Birthing Centre. Your investment in ideas, time and resources has been instrumental in our journey.
To our midwives, your dedication to our hapu mama and the Community has been truly remarkable. You encouraged natural and safe births here and gave me tremendous kindness. I felt valued and supported by your presence.
To the Maternity Staff, you are the face of our Birthing Centre, the reason women chose to come here. Your compassion and care during the most vulnerable times of these women’s lives have made an indelible mark.
To the background Team, The unsung heroes. Our office manager, maintenance manager, laundry, kitchen, nurses, and facility manager. You were the backbone of our Birthing Centre. Your teamwork made this place run smoothly.
Lastly, to my beloved family, my heartfelt thanks go out to my husband, mother, and extended family. Your support during long hours and weekends; thank you for your patience and understanding. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without you all.
The Birthing Centre will forever hold a special place in my heart. It’s where my three children were born, and thousands more in our Community welcome their little ones into the world. Our legacy is one of love, care, support, and, of course, those unforgettable milkshakes.
Thank you, Birthing Centre community, for participating in this incredible journey. While this chapter may be closing, the love and connections forged within these walls will endure.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Ashley McKay Maternity Manager