BACKGROUND:
The unique model of maternity care in Aotearoa New Zealand, with midwives providing community-based continuity of care, is most often supported by Midwifery Group Practice (MGP). Although this model has existed for over 30 years, there is still no practical resource kit to guide midwives in their group practices. Multiple models of MGP are used across Aotearoa, with diverse organisational and management approaches—there is no single ‘right’ way to run an MGP or practise as an LMC. The MGP project focused on identifying what midwives say works best. This presentation explores, with examples, the processes, strategies and tools that support real-world practices across Aotearoa, and introduces a comprehensive, usable, acceptable, equitable, and accessible resource kit.

OBJECTIVES:
- to identify effective MGP organisation and management strategies - to identify what works well for existing longstanding practices in different contexts and regions (e.g. rural, urban, young, homebirth) - to highlight and identify specific cultural practices that sustain Māori MGPs

METHODS:
- Online national survey of all midwives in Aotearoa - Kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face) meetings with Māori midwives - Discussion groups with longstanding practices in different contexts and regions.

RESULTS:
Our research found that Midwifery Group Practices (MGPs) thrive with shared philosophy, strong team dynamics, and decision-making autonomy. Sustainable practices set clear boundaries, share responsibility, and resolve conflict effectively. Challenges include workload, finances, and wellbeing. Some prioritise team sustainability over individual care. Each MGP is shaped by local context—there is no one-size-fits-all model.

CONCLUSIONS:
This project shows that shared philosophy, supportive relationships, and adaptability are key to sustaining MGPs. Despite workload and emotional challenges, strong collegial support and clear boundaries build resilience. There’s no single model—successful MGPs are grounded in relational care and context.

KEY MESSAGE:
The project is directly relevant for LMC midwives across Aotearoa providing a wide range of effective, practical ideas for midwifery group practices. SRHR - Abortion training