He said the DHB was committed to maternal health and wellbeing, which was why it had substantially increased funding for antenatal and parenting information.
"However, evidence shows us that, if you don't make these programme informative, interactive and fun no-one will go - we believe this new programme will deliver that," Mr Le Geyt said.
The classes will begin from March 1, 2018 and a schedule of dates, times and place would be released in early 2018.
An integral part of the programme would be evaluating its success, in terms of numbers attending and achievements, which the provider would report back to the DHB.
Mr Le Geyt said that while final negotiations were still under way with the new provider, he could not specify the exact value of the contract.
"We can say, however, it is substantially more than has previously been allocated."
Alternatives
With the DHB's change of focus to more of a Kaupapa Maori model, three long-time Hawke's Bay childbirth educators are teaming up to provide further classes in Hastings and Napier for expectant parents.
Janine Gard, Erin Bradley and Janeane Strawbridge have more than 25 years teaching experience between them teaching classes guided by Ministry of Health pregnancy and parenting information and education service specifications.
"It's a much needed service here in Hawke's Bay, where there are around 600 first time mums each year," Mrs Gard said.
"We know from our very long experience that it is important to understand the cultural practices and preferences of the many different nationalities that make up Hawke's Bay, and we welcome everyone to our classes whether first time or experienced parents and irrespective of nationality or belief."
Mrs Bradley said each class was tailored to the needs of the parents who wanted to learn about late pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and caring for their newborn."
To find out when and where these classes are held go to www.hbantenatal-classes.co.nz
