If you’re looking for midwife-led antenatal classes in Wellington, we’d love to welcome you to one of our upcoming courses.
Antenatal Classes
These classes are a chance to slow down, get clear, evidence-based info, and ask all the questions that might not get answered in a busy appointment. More than that, they’re a space to meet other local parents and share the journey together.
We keep things real, practical, and supportive. Our hope is that you’ll leave class not only feeling informed, but also connected and a little more confident about the road ahead.
Details
When:
The course is delivered weekly over 5x Tuesday evenings 6.30-8.30pm
Where:
Evans Bay Yacht Club, Hataitai, Wellington
What’s included:
10 hours of engaging, interactive sessions designed to help you connect with the rest of your group.
1 postnatal meet-up, giving you the chance to ask questions, pick up practical parenting tips, and receive hands-on breastfeeding support.
Facilitation by a qualified, experienced midwife - Chelsea.
Handout material including birth plan template & hospital bag checklist.
A snack and hot drinks at each class.
A curated list of local services and businesses for parents complete with discount codes.
Goodie bag to take home.
Ongoing community: a private chat group for your class.
Cost:
$280 for our 5 week course series + 1 postnatal meet-up.
Our Course will Cover
Wellbeing in pregnancy – caring for body and mind
When to seek help – recognising important warning signs
The support person’s role – how they can be involved and make a difference
Making informed choices – understanding your options with confidence
Understanding physiological labour – what’s happening in the body
Coping strategies & pain relief options – practical tools for managing labour
When extra support is needed – an introduction to medical interventions
The first hours and days – what to expect after birth
Feeding your baby – exploring all the options and finding what works for you
Physical recovery – caring for your body after birth
Wellbeing for parents – looking after yourself as you adjust
Planning for the postpartum – preparing for life with a newborn
Sleep (for everyone!) – what’s normal and how to cope
Practical parenting skills – hands-on tips for the early weeks
FAQs
Who are these classes for?
Our antenatal classes are for anyone who is pregnant or expecting a baby and wants to feel informed, confident, and supported as they prepare for birth and parenthood. With a focus on inclusivity, these are LGBTQIA+ friendly environments where every journey is valued, and there’s no “one right way” to build a whānau or be a parent.
Whether it’s your first baby or you’ve done it before, these sessions provide evidence-based information and practical tools in a safe, non-judgemental space designed to support you and your whānau.
What if I can’t afford it?
We don’t want cost to be a barrier. Payment plans are available, and we also offer limited koha spots so everyone has the chance to join. it’s really important to us that everyone who wants to learn and connect has the chance to be here. Please just get in touch and we’ll work it out together.
Can I bring my partner?
Of course! We encourage you to bring your partner or support person with you. They are included in the price of your classes. If you’re partner is unable to attend for a class then you’re welcome to bring another support person along with you.
When should I start antenatal classes?
We recommend starting your antenatal classes from around 28 weeks onwards. This gives you plenty of time to learn, reflect, and put things into practice before baby arrives, without finishing so early that it all feels like a distant memory.
However, you’re welcome to join any class that works best for you.
How big are the classes?
We like to keep the classes smaller so you have a better opportunity to get to know each other (as we know community is so important when having a baby). Our classes are generally around 10-12 couples.
Do you cover caesareans and medical births?
Yes. We cover all types of birth so you feel prepared, whatever your journey looks like.
Can I eat during the class?
We know it’s dinner time and growing a baby works up an appetite. There will be a light snack provided with hot drinks. However, you’re welcome to bring food along with you!
What if I need to cancel?
Your payment is non-refundable unless there are extenuating circumstances (for example, if your baby arrives prematurely before the course begins). In these cases, a refund will be issued minus a $20 administration fee.
Once the course has started, we’re unable to offer refunds. If you believe your situation qualifies as an extenuating circumstance, please email us to discuss a refund.
When is the postnatal catch up?
We will organise that with the group once we’ve started the course. We aim to have it before your baby is a month old however, it depends on everyone’s due dates and when the babies decide to join us.
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Upcoming Classes
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Series 2
Best for those due to give birth between 1st March - 14th April
January 13 - February 10
Tuesdays 6.30-8.30pm
Evans Bay Yacht Club
Hataitai, Wellington
$280 -
Series 3
Best for those due to give birth between 14th April - 26th May
February 24 - March 24
Tuesdays 6.30-8.30pm
Evans Bay Yacht Club
Hataitai, Wellington
$280 -
Series 4
Best for those due to give birth between 26th May - 28th July
April 7 - May 5
Tuesdays 6.30-8.30pm
Evans Bay Yacht Club
Hataitai, Wellington
$280
Contact us
hello@first-steps.co.nz