Christmas baby delight at Tauranga Hospital

Christmas baby at the Bethlehem Birthing centre. Rick, Sam and baby Mila Jay Clark. Photo/Geroge Novak

The parents of Tauranga's first Christmas baby say she is the best gift they could have received.

Mila Jay Clark was born at Tauranga Hospital at 3.39am today weighing 8lb 4oz.

The family was then moved for some rest and relaxation to Bethlehem Birthing Centre.

Mila Jay Clark sleeps just hours after being born. Photo/George Novak

Curled up with their newborn wearing a tiny Santa hat Omokoroa Beach parents Sam and Rick Clark, thought having a Christmas baby was "amazing".

"Her big sister just came to visit and thinks it's a pretty cool gift for Christmas," Mr Clark said.

"No excuse to forget when her birthday is either."

There had been a bit of competition with another family whose baby was due on Christmas Day - but their baby was born just before midnight on Christmas Eve.

Mrs Clark said when she was wheeled in to give birth there were Christmas lights all around at the hospital and once Mila was born she was showered in presents from the hospital.

Her cot was done up in tinsel and there were teddy bears and a Christmas blanket.

The Clarks were planning to have Christmas dinner in the birthing centre room, surrounded by family.

As at 2pm Mila was the only baby born on Christmas Day at either Tauranga Hospital or Bethlehem Birthing Centre.