16/11/2025
17 November – World Prematurity Day
Today we honour the tiniest fighters and the families and healthcare teams who care for them.
In New Zealand, around 1 in 12 babies are born prematurely (before 37 weeks). Thanks to advances in medical care, more premature babies than ever are thriving, but the journey can be emotional, challenging, and full of ups and downs for families.
Many people don’t realise that premature babies may need extra support for things like breathing, temperature regulation, feeding, and even managing sensory development. Time in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be intense, but it’s often a crucial step toward a healthy start.
For information, resources, and support, visit: littlemiraclestrust.org.nz