What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Queenstown?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Queenstown about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said...
"Firstly, it's important to familiarize yourself with the healthcare system in New Zealand. The country has a high standard of healthcare and maternity services are free for residents and certain visa holders. You should register with a local GP (General Practitioner) as soon as you can. They will be your first point of contact for all health-related issues and can refer you to a midwife or obstetrician if necessary. In New Zealand, midwives provide most maternity care, so it's important to find a midwife you feel comfortable with. You can start looking for a midwife as soon as you know you're pregnant. Consider taking antenatal classes. These are a great way to prepare for childbirth and parenting, and it's also a good opportunity to meet other expectant parents in Queenstown. If you're planning to give birth in a hospital, the Lakes District Hospital in Queenstown is the main hospital in the area. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the hospital and its facilities. Remember to apply for a birth certificate for your baby after they are born. This is a legal requirement in New Zealand and is necessary for things like passport applications and school enrolments. Lastly, make sure you have a support network. Having a baby can be a challenging time, especially if you're far from home. Reach out to local parenting groups, expat communities, or even online forums for support and advice," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Queenstown, New Zealand.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Queenstown?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Queenstown?
- Will I be able to find a job in Queenstown?
- What is life like in Queenstown?
- What do expats in Queenstown appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Queenstown?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Queenstown accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Queenstown like?
- What are healthcare services like in Queenstown?
- What are medical services in Queenstown like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Queenstown?
- What are emergency services like in Queenstown?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Queenstown?
- How are local medical facilities in Queenstown?
- As a foreigner living in Queenstown, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Queenstown?
If you live in Queenstown, newcomers to Queenstown would love to hear your answer to this question.