What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Dunedin?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Dunedin about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said...
"Firstly, it's important to familiarize yourself with the healthcare system in New Zealand. The country has a high standard of healthcare and maternity services are free for residents and certain permit holders. You should register with a local General Practitioner (GP) as soon as you can. They will be your first point of contact for all health-related issues and can refer you to a midwife or obstetrician if necessary. In New Zealand, midwives are the main providers of care for pregnant women and they offer their services for free. You can choose your own midwife, so take the time to find one you feel comfortable with. Consider taking antenatal classes. These are a great way to prepare for childbirth and parenthood, and it's also a good opportunity to meet other expectant parents in Dunedin. If you're planning to give birth in a hospital, Dunedin Public Hospital has a maternity ward. It's advisable to visit the hospital beforehand to familiarize yourself with the facilities and understand where you need to go when the time comes. Ensure you understand your rights in the workplace. New Zealand has laws in place to protect the rights of pregnant women at work, including paid parental leave. Finally, connect with other expats who have had a baby in Dunedin. They can offer advice, share their experiences and perhaps even recommend doctors or midwives. There are several online forums and social media groups that can be helpful," said another expat in Dunedin, New Zealand.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Dunedin?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Dunedin?
- Will I be able to find a job in Dunedin?
- What is life like in Dunedin?
- What do expats in Dunedin appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Dunedin?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Dunedin accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Dunedin like?
- What are healthcare services like in Dunedin?
- What are medical services in Dunedin like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Dunedin?
- What are emergency services like in Dunedin?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Dunedin?
- How are local medical facilities in Dunedin?
- As a foreigner living in Dunedin, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Dunedin?
If you live in Dunedin, newcomers to Dunedin would love to hear your answer to this question.