PM Key opens Tauranga birthing centre

Prime Minister John Key has just opened Tauranga's first birthing centre as part of a visit to the city today.

Mr Key was joined by Tauranga MP Simon Bridges and Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller at the Bethlehem Birthing Centre to celebrate it's official opening.

A crowd of about 150 people gathered at the centre, as Mr Key was welcomed by powhiri.

Mr Key said the birthing centre was a ''great idea'' and joked that he welcomed anyone to call their children ''John''.

Mr Key also visited children and staff at Brookfield Primary School this morning, where he was taken on a class by class tour.

He joined in with children writing letters and playing on iPads by getting down to their level and asking questions about technology.

Mr Key is expected to also visit Mount Maunganui College this afternoon.

Mr Key last visited the Bay in June.