Baby dies in hospital after childbirth fatality

The first-time mum died at Waikato Hospital after a difficult birth. Photo / Sarah Ivey

A baby has died in hospital just days after her mother died during a difficult childbirth, police say.

The baby had been in critical condition.

Earlier, police named the 20-year-old Hamilton woman who died at Waikato Hospital after a difficult birth.

Casey Missy Turama Nathan died at the hospital on Monday after giving birth at a Huntly birthing centre.

Her death is being attended by police on behalf of the Coroner, but Detective Sergeant Michele Moore of the Waikato Coronial Investigative Team said police involvement in cases like this was standard procedure.

"No conclusions in relation to the nature of death should be drawn by routine enquiries of this nature.

"A post-mortem examination has been conducted and we are awaiting the results of this."

The first-time mother gave birth at Huntly Birthcare before being rushed to Waikato Hospital where she died several hours later.

Hospital spokeswoman Mary Anne Gill said the death had been referred to police.

"Our condolences go to the family. The police are involved, the death has been referred to the coroner and Waikato DHB's processes in these situations are well under way,'' she said.

- HERALD ONLINE/APNZ