The new boss of Waikato's DHB was in charge of one of the worst-performing Canadian health authorities - and Labour has questioned his appointment.

There is a claim the lives of 20 babies at Waikato Hospital were put at risk when maintenance staff turned off the air to their breathing supply last week.

The Waikato District Health Board has lifted its ban on women having their labours and births photographed professionally - provided no intervention is required.

A psychiatric assistant who forced a young autistic patient to the ground and held him in a head lock was justifiably dismissed, the ERA rules.

Hundreds of health workers are being bitten, head-butted and assaulted while they look after sick, injured and distressed patients.

Waikato District Health Board leaders do not hide from their hospitals' unenviable status as having one of the highest death rates in the country.

Primary health care in Waikato faces future where demand outstrips resources, DHB told.

The increasing number of extremely obese patients has forced Waikato Hospital to open special rooms.