Wraparound support is being launched to boost the number of Maori and Pasifika midwives

There's funding for a dedicated role at the country's five midwifery educators - for student care and academic support, and recruiting students.

And a hardship fund to help students with costs such as childcare, and transport to births.

While 20 percent of women giving birth are Maori and 10 percent Pasifika - only around 10 percent of midwives are Maori, and under three percent Pasifika.