Rotorua mothers and babies "latched on" at 9.30am and 10.30am. At Te Aka Mauri there was also a multicultural group opening performance, live music, speakers, a shared morning tea, prizes and the announcement of photo competition winners.
There was also the introduction of Kia Wana Lakes Baby's volunteer peer supporters, who have been training to support other women in breastfeeding challenges.
Nehsha Moynihan with her 10-month-old daughter Bella Moynihan at the Big Latch On. Photo / Stephen Parker
Nehsha Moynihan attended the event with her 10-month-old daughter Bella.
She said she liked the kaupapa of the Big Latch On and it was a good reason for stay-at-home mothers to get out.
"I breastfeed my baby and it's an important and empowering thing to be able to do that."
She said a lot of mothers did not know about services available, so the event was a great way to network and learn all about services.
Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick and Waiariki MP Tamati Coffey were also at the Big Latch On event.
Chadwick said she attended the first Latch On in Rotorua in the Plunket rooms and to see it at Te Aka Mauri today, which was exactly what the space was designed for, was quite emotional.
It was all about building strong families and a family-friendly community, she said.
"It's wonderful to see behind it there's a whole service and advocates."
