Ruatōria first at Big Latch On

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

The Big Latch On annual breastfeeding event returns this weekend at a different time of the year and with a historic first.

Health NZ-Tairāwhiti is hosting two Big Latch On events on Friday — one at HB Williams Memorial Library from 10am; the other at Ruatōria Fire Station from 10am.

It will be the first Big Latch On event to be held in Ruatōria.

“Our aim is to support parents on their feeding journeys by creating safe spaces for connection, friendship and valuable support from local services,” a Health NZ-Tairāwhiti spokeswoman said.

At the Gisborne Latch On, māmā can enjoy light refreshments, engage in meaningful conversations, and receive breastfeeding advice from lactation consultant Janet McGuiness.

Spot prizes and gift packs will make the experience even more memorable.

The Big Latch On was founded by Women’s Health Action in 2005 and has gone on to become a global event.

Until 2019, it took place annually over three days during World Breastfeeding Week in the first week of August.

After a hiatus over the Covid-19 pandemic, it returned last year and since then has been held in the warmer month of April.