Title: The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative Aotearoa New Zealand: An example of collaboration
Author: Stufkens, Julie
Affiliation: New Zealand Breastfeeding Authority
Contact: stufkens@clear.net.nz

Abstract:
Establishment of the New Zealand Breastfeeding Authority (NZBA)
In 1999 groups who had concerns about the rate of breastfeeding and our poor national child health statistics formed the NZBA. The vision was to see breastfeeding become the cultural norm. The organisation has advocated for implementation of the goals of the Innocenti Declaration.

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative
The BFHI is WHO's primary intervention strategy for strengthening the capacity of national health systems to protect and support breast feeding. Each country has to tailor the guidelines for their maternity system and legislation. The NZBA undertook the development of the guidelines with government funding. The documents involved extensive consultation (stakeholder groups and Iwi) and were launched in August 2000.

Unique features in NZ BFHI.
The Maternity system has Lead Maternity Carers, who may either be employed by the facility, or have an Access Agreement with the facility and so are not employees. The Treaty of Waitangi principles of partnership, participation and protection are an integral part of BFHI. The intent is to encourage consistent evidence-based culturally appropriate practice at all health care facilities where initiation of breastfeeding occurs. Consumers interviewed must be asked for informed consent.
There are now six accredited facilities in NZ.