NZ Ministry of Health, mums and babies take part in big latch on

Jul 31 2008

The New Zealand Ministry of Health is walking the talk by taking part in tomorrow's nationwide breastfeeding promotion - the Big Latch On.

Ministry of Health Deputy Director-Generals, Margie Apa, Janice Wilson and Geraldine Woods are attending to show their support.

Margie Apa says the Ministry's participation is very fitting, as a new campaign launched by the Ministry on Monday encourages support for breastfeeding mums.

"We are thrilled to be able to support mums and babies by being a Big Latch On venue."

"The event is part of World Breastfeeding Week celebrations. This year's theme is Mother Support - Going for Gold", says Margie Apa.

Actor Shane Cortese, his partner Nerida Jantti and their son Kees will be there - with Shane as the 'official counter'.

Last year New Zealand recorded 937 women breastfeeding simultaneously; this year it is anticipated that 1000-plus mothers will be counted breaking the record, which has been broken annually since 2005.

This is the fourth year Women's Health Action has coordinated the record attempt. There are 77 registered sites throughout New Zealand from Kaitaia to Invercargill - as well as 10 locations in the Fiji Islands.

Women's Health Action has prepared a quiz which will be launched on the day to see how supportive people are to breastfeeding mothers. The quiz asks questions like: When you see a mother breastfeeding in the mall do you: A. Look away embarrassed, B. Take no notice or give a casual smile, C. Go up to her and tell her she is doing a great job? Find out the answer and more at the Ministry of Health, 133 Molesworth St, 10am on Friday 1 August 2008.