Hardest decision for baby Charlotte's parents

The parents of Waiheke baby Charlotte Cleverley-Bisman, who is battling meningococcal disease, have signed consent forms for her legs and hands to be amputated today.

Charlotte's father, Perry Bisman, said it was the "worst and hardest decision" he had ever had to make. The 7-month-old contracted the disease two weeks ago.

"We just want it to be over but we are still a long way from recovery."

The surgery was expected to take about five hours and until then it would not be known how extensive the amputations would have to be.