The Hutt Valley DHB is welcoming a funding boost for maternity services, amid calls for better foetal heart rate monitoring during labour

The deputy health commissioner reported poor heart rate monitoring contributed to the death of one baby, and permanent brain damage in another three years ago.

More than nine million dollars has been announced for upgrades to maternity services at Hutt Valley DHB.

Obstetrician and gynaecologist Sue Belgrave says they need consistent practices and terminology.

She says there isn't a perfect tool to monitor heart rates during labour, but they want to identify babies that are at risk of oxygen deprivation.