Meet the team behind Hey Māmā: A Q+A with Sam & Helayna

We thought it was about time we stepped out from behind the screen and said a proper kia ora! If you’ve ever wondered who’s running the show here at Hey Māmā, this is for you.

Maternal Mental Health in Aotearoa: Time to Do Better for Our Māmās

This week marks Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week in Aotearoa — a chance to spotlight the wellbeing of those navigating pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. While the week aims to reduce stigma and spark important kōrero, it also brings to light the uncomfortable truth: our system is not doing enough to care for māmās when they need it most. We know that bringing a baby into the world can be one of the most transformative — and vulnerable — times in a person’s life. But for too many parents in Aotearoa, that transformation is marred by anxiety, depression, and a lack of accessible support. The Reality for Parents in NZ An estimated 12–18% of birthing parents in New Zealand experience perinatal mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety. For partners, the rate sits around 10%. These conditions can develop during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum — a time already fuelled by sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, identity shifts, and constant demands. But here’s the most heartbreaking stat: Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in Aotearoa. Between 2006 and 2017, suicide accounted for 45% of maternal deaths within the first 42 days after birth. That’s a staggering figure — and it only reflects the small window we currently track. International evidence shows the risk of suicide can remain high up to a year postpartum, meaning the true scale here in NZ may be far greater. These aren’t just numbers. They’re lives — wāhine, whānau, and pēpi caught in the gaps of an overstretched system. The Support Gap So, what’s going wrong? It’s not that healthcare professionals don’t care. Midwives, GPs, nurses, and specialists are often working under enormous pressure with limited resources. The issue is that many parents seeking help are falling through the cracks. Specialist Maternal Mental Health Services (MMHS) are available in many regions — but they’re chronically under-resourced. Long waitlists, strict eligibility criteria, and patchy regional coverage mean some parents are told they’re “not severe enough” to qualify for help. Others don’t even know such services exist. The gold standard internationally is to have specialist Mother-Baby Units (MBUs) — hospital spaces where māmā can receive mental health care without being separated from their pēpi. New Zealand has only two of these for a population that sees around 60,000 births each year. For comparison, the UK recommends one unit for every 15,000 births. Put simply: the demand far outweighs the supply. What Can Be Done? There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but here’s what experts, advocates, and families across the country agree on: More funding for Maternal Mental Health ServicesServices need to be better staffed, better resourced, and more accessible — especially for rural and underserved communities. Increased investment in Mother-Baby UnitsParents deserve care that keeps them with their babies in a safe, supportive environment — not general psychiatric wards. Earlier and broader screeningEducation around perinatal mental health should start during pregnancy, with routine check-ins for both parents in the months following birth. Culturally safe, inclusive careMāori wāhine are over three times more likely to die by suicide in the perinatal period. Our systems need to be actively anti-racist and inclusive of diverse cultural understandings of hauora. For the Māmās Reading This If you’re in the thick of it, feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed or just not right, please know: you are not alone — and it is absolutely okay to ask for help. Mental health challenges don’t make you a bad parent. They don’t mean you’re broken. They mean you’re human. Support might look like medication. It might look like therapy. It might look like a cuppa and kōrero with someone who gets it. All of it is valid. All of it matters. Where to Get Help Here are some trusted places to start: And if you’re currently pregnant, take this as a gentle nudge: set up your support network now. Whether it’s your partner, your whānau, a friend or a postnatal doula — having a village around you can make all the difference when things get hard. We need more than awareness weeks — we need action, funding, and real change. But while we wait for the system to catch up, let’s keep doing what we can at ground level: checking in on each other, talking openly, and reminding every parent out there that their wellbeing matters. You matter, mama. Always.

Caesarean section (c-section) birth in New Zealand – a mix of 10 stats & facts:

The latest data available in New Zealand is the statistics from 2022. In that report it noted that c-section birth rates have increased over the last 15 years to 32% of all births in 2022, the highest ever recorded. Of the c-section births in New Zealand, roughly half (10-15%) are elective/planned and the other half are emergent/not planned. Common reason for having an elective c-section birth are medical necessity (for example, breech presentation, placenta previa, previous c-sections, or pre-existing medical conditions), multiple pregnancy, or personal maternal request. 

Bhone Beauty: Bringing Ancient Nutrition to Modern Motherhood

Motherhood is rewarding, but let’s be real—it’s exhausting. Between feeding, working, cleaning, and keeping up with life, 75% of postpartum mothers say reducing fatigue and boosting energy is their top health priority. But who has time for complicated wellness routines?

Vision Boards: A Powerful Tool for Pregnancy and Parenting 

Becoming a parent is one of the most transformative journeys in life. Whether you’re expecting your first baby, adjusting to life with a newborn, or navigating the ups and downs of parenting, having a clear vision for yourself and your family can make all the difference. A vision board is a simple yet powerful way to set intentions, stay motivated, and manifest the life you want for yourself and your little one. 

Why Organic Cotton? The Growing Choice for Baby & Toddler Clothing

When shopping for baby and toddler clothing, the fabric you choose matters more than you might think. Babies have delicate skin, their bodies are still learning to regulate temperature, and let’s be honest—kids’ clothes go through a lot! That’s why organic cotton is one of the best  choices for little ones.

But what makes organic cotton “organic”? And why is it better than regular cotton or synthetic fabrics? Let’s break it down.

From Parenthood to Entrepreneurship

Becoming a parent is often described as one of life’s most fulfilling experiences, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the financial implications of raising a child. In New Zealand, many new parents face the challenge of high product prices, which can add stress to the transition into parenthood. This triggered quest for quality products at reasonable prices during maternity leave culminated in the creation of a small business that can help families across New Zealand.

What Life Will Look Like for Kiwi Kids Born After 2025 – A Peek Into Generation Beta

The arrival of 2025 births the beginning of Generation Beta, the children born from this year through to 2039. As parents and parents-to-be, it’s natural to wonder about the world our kids will grow up in. While each generation faces its own set of challenges and opportunities, Generation Beta is poised to thrive in an era of incredible innovation, sustainability, and connection. Here’s what life might look like for our tamariki and how we, as parents, can prepare them for a bright future.

Hey Māmā’s Guide to Holiday Peace

The holiday season can be magical, but for parents—especially mums—it often feels like a marathon. Between planning family gatherings, buying presents, organising food, and keeping the kids entertained, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Add in unsolicited advice from relatives, overstimulated tamariki, and a sprinkle of seasonal stress, and you might find yourself wondering how to make it through with your peace (and sense of humour!) intact.

Books That Make a Difference: Why A Wish to Save the Big Tree is the Perfect Christmas Gift for Kids

In this heartwarming interview, we chat with the talented authors about their creative journey from the Philippines to New Zealand, the inspiration behind the Magic Toothies series, and how their new book delivers an important message just in time for Christmas. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift or a story that sparks family conversations about the environment, this one’s for you.

Navigating ACC for Mums: A Guide to Accessing Support from Preconception to Parenting

If you’re a parent or about to become one, the last thing you want to deal with is confusing paperwork or figuring out where to turn for support after an injury or medical issue. But for many New Zealand mums, navigating the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) can feel like a maze. ACC provides cover for a range of injuries and conditions, including those related to pregnancy and birth, yet knowing what you’re entitled to — and how to access it — can be tricky.

Navigating Maternity Leave in New Zealand: Your Rights and Options

Welcoming a new baby is an exciting and life-changing experience, and understanding your rights and options regarding maternity leave in New Zealand is crucial for planning this important time. Whether you’re a first-time parent or expanding your family, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident as you embark on this new chapter. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating maternity leave in New Zealand.

Boosting Fertility Naturally: Diet, Exercise, and Lifestyle Tips

For many couples, the journey to conception is one filled with anticipation and hope. While there are numerous factors that influence fertility, making positive changes in your diet, exercise routine, and overall lifestyle can have a significant impact on your chances of conceiving. Here’s how you can naturally boost your fertility and support your body in preparing for pregnancy.

Understanding Ovulation: How to Track and Optimise Your Chances of Conception

When you’re trying to conceive, understanding your body’s natural rhythms can make a world of difference. Ovulation is a key part of the reproductive process, and knowing how to track it can significantly increase your chances of conception. Here’s a guide to help you understand ovulation better and how you can optimise your efforts when trying for a baby.

Preparing for Parenthood: A Guide to Preconception Health and Wellness

Becoming a parent is a life-changing journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of nerves. As you embark on this adventure, one of the best things you can do is prepare your body and mind for the changes ahead. Preconception health and wellness play a crucial role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and setting a strong foundation for your future child’s wellbeing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.