Emergency & Crisis Support

There are several resources and services available for maternal mental health emergencies and crises.

If a mother is facing a mental health crisis related to pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period, immediate assistance can be accessed through these essential services.

Emergency Services

(For Immediate Danger)

Dial 111

If there is an immediate risk to the safety of the mother, baby, or others, or if there is a medical or mental health emergency, call 111 for urgent police, ambulance, or fire assistance.

Auckland Crisis Mental Health Services

Auckland DHB Mental Health Crisis Teams (CATT – Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team):

These teams offer immediate support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

  • Auckland City:
    Crisis Line (24/7): 0800 800 717

  • Counties Manukau:
    24/7 Crisis Line: 0800 775 222

  • Waitematā DHB:
    24/7 Crisis Line: 0800 223 371

    These services assess mental health crises and provide immediate intervention, including home visits if necessary.

Maternal Mental Health Services in Auckland

Auckland Maternal Mental Health Service (AMHS):

This service provides specialist care for women experiencing severe mental health issues during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Referrals are typically made by a GP or midwife.

Contact your local DHB (Auckland, Waitematā, or Counties Manukau) for referral information.

Mother and Baby Unit (MBU) – Starship Hospital

Auckland DHB’s Mother and Baby Unit is a specialized inpatient facility for mothers experiencing serious postnatal depression, postpartum psychosis, or other perinatal mental health crises.

It allows the mother to stay with her baby while receiving intensive mental health treatment.

Phone (via Auckland DHB): 09 307 4949 (ask for the Mother and Baby Unit).

Mental Health Crisis Helplines

National Telehealth Service:
Available for anyone needing mental health or addiction support at any time. Free call or text 1737 (available 24/7) to speak with a trained counsellor.

Lifeline New Zealand:
Provides support for those in distress or having suicidal thoughts.
Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP).

Suicide Crisis Helpline:
0800 543 354 (available 24/7) for anyone feeling suicidal or in a mental health crisis.

Postnatal Depression Support Services

Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa (PADA):

  • PADA provides information, resources, and support for women experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety.

  • While not a crisis service, PADA can guide mothers and families toward appropriate mental health support.

  • Website: PADA - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa

The Postnatal Depression Family/Whānau Support Service (PND Auckland):

  • Offers support for mothers experiencing postnatal depression and anxiety.

  • Provides home visiting support and peer groups.

  • Phone: 09 528 1790

  • Website: PND Auckland

Women’s Refuge

If maternal mental health issues are linked to domestic violence or unsafe living situations, the Women's Refuge provides emergency support and accommodation for women and children.

GP and Midwife Support

General Practitioners (GPs): A GP is often the first point of contact for maternal mental health concerns and can provide urgent referrals to specialized mental health services.

Midwife Support: Midwives are trained to recognize maternal mental health symptoms and can provide advice, referrals, or direct women to appropriate support services.

Additional Resources for Support

Plunket Line: Provides advice for all aspects of parenting, including maternal mental health.
Call 0800 933 922 (available 24/7).

Family Services Directory: A comprehensive database of community services in Auckland and around New Zealand.
Website: Family Services Directory

For a maternal mental health crisis in Auckland, these services and contacts provide critical support to ensure that mothers and their families receive the care and intervention they need to manage and recover from mental health challenges.