Security for midwives bolstered at Christchurch Hospital after ‘very violent’ night-time assault

Security has been “bolstered” around Christchurch Hospital’s birthing unit after what a source says was a “very violent” assault on a staff member after her shift finished last weekend.

The Herald understands the woman had finished work at the community birthing centre Kurawaka: Waipapa on Antigua St and was likely walking to her vehicle when she was attacked. The incident did not happen on the premises.

Health authorities did not respond to requests for information last night but have provided comment this morning.

"We are aware of the incident, which occurred last weekend. While we can’t comment specifically on the status of individuals, we can say the person involved continues to be well supported," said Te Whatu Ora Canterbury group director of operations Hamish Brown.

“As a precaution we have increased security measures in this part of the campus to ensure staff, and others who work here, get to their vehicles safely at night. We continue to remind staff, and others, to take appropriate safety precautions when they leave the hospital campus at night.

“At Health NZ, the safety and wellbeing of our staff, and other workers, is a critical part of delivering quality health care to New Zealanders. We take violence and aggression seriously, and our people should expect to come to work and be safe. We encourage them to report all incidents of abuse and assault.”

Yesterday, an email was sent to all Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury (formerly the Canterbury District Health Board) staff, confirming the incident.

It was shared with the Herald.

“Additional security measures have been put in place after a serious assault last weekend, involving a person based in Kurawaka: Waipapa,” said the email from the Christchurch Hospital security team.

Kurawaka: Waipapa birthing unit in Christchurch. Photo / George Heard

“Our security team has, as a temporary response, bolstered security in the area around this part of the hospital.

“Security escorts will temporarily be provided for Kurawaka: Waipapa staff, student nurses or midwives during the hours of darkness. This will be a priority over the coming days to provide an extra layer of security.

“Allied Security mobile patrols will focus their patrolling at the change of shifts in the central area of the hospital and Kurawaka: Waipapa.”

The assault happened on a staff member who had just finished work at Kurawaka: Waipapa – Christchurch's new primary birthing unit. Photo / Te Whatu Ora

The security team assured staff that the health and safety of Te Whatu Ora employees and others who work on the hospital campus was its top priority.

The incident was described as a timely reminder about how everyone can help look after themselves and others.

“Ensuring your personal safety when leaving or arriving at the hospital involves a mix of situational awareness, planning and taking precautions,” the security team said.

“Whether within one of our campuses or travelling to and from work, please be always conscious of your security and take appropriate actions to protect yourself and your property.

“Taking these precautions can help minimise risks and ensure your personal safety.”

Staff with concerns were encouraged to speak to their managers.

“Other staff may have also experienced similar incidents so it’s important these are raised,” the email said.

“You should also take the time to report even what you may think is a minor incident.”

Until 2023, the only primary birthing unit in Christchurch was located at St George’s Hospital. That unit closed – despite protest and petitions from thousands of people – when St George’s maternity contract with Te Whatu Ora ended.

Kurawaka: Waipapa opened in April 2024. The unit was designed to provide a more home-like and calming environment for low-risk births, with about 2000 babies expected to be delivered each year.

The unit is also expected to reduce pressure on the nearby Christchurch Women’s Hospital Maternity Unit.

Before Kurawaka: Waipapa opened, people expecting babies in Christchurch had to travel to Rangiora, Rolleston or Ashburton to access a primary birthing unit.

Anna Leask is a senior journalist who covers national crime and justice. She joined the Herald in 2008 and has worked as a journalist for 19 years with a particular focus on family and gender-based violence, child abuse, sexual violence, homicides, mental health and youth crime. She writes, hosts and produces the award-winning podcast A Moment In Crime, released monthly on nzherald.co.nz