Woman, newborn flown to hospital after sudden birth

Photo / iStock

A woman and her newborn baby were rushed to hospital by helicopter after she unexpectedly gave birth prematurely today.

The 28-year-old Whakatane woman started having sudden contractions so her partner took her to the medical centre at Te Kaha, near Opotiki.

She gave birth to a boy shortly after their arrival.

The Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to rush them to Whakatane Hospital.

Mother and baby were admitted to the hospital for observation.

The rescue helicopter service said both were doing well.