A midwife's pleading for better maternity facilities in rural areas

A Southland mother gave birth in an ambulance on the side of the road just outside Lumsden yesterday, en route to proper care facilities.

The Lumsden Maternity Centre was downgraded last month, losing its birthing unit.

The woman's midwife and Lumsden local, Sarah Stokes, says there have been fears women would be forced into situations like this.

She says rural families deserve the best care possible, with timely access to facilities.