Tinā-i-Tinā is a peer support service that aims to help mothers feel supported to breastfeed, by providing knowledge and sharing experiences.
Pacific Trust Otago dietitian and health services lead Finau Taungapeau said "tinā-i-tinā" is a Samoan saying which means "mother to mother".
Information from the National Feeding Data at Discharge Report 2021 showed breastfeeding rates for Pasifika infants was much lower than the national average.
"So we need to improve that because we believe that having the best start nutritionally for our babies is the best thing we can do."
Mrs Taungapeau said anecdotal reasons for the low breastfeeding rates could include mothers having to go back to work.
A number of Pasifika families were in low-income situations, so there could be pressure to return to work.
Some mothers could also feel cut off from the type of extended family help that would be more available in the Pacific islands.
"They can feel isolated, especially if the father is the one doing the work for income and the wife is left alone at home."
If there were other young children to look after it could feel complicated and stressful to spend time breastfeeding.
"We also realise that for some of the mothers breastfeeding is not as easy because it is not normalised in this environment."
Funded by Te Whatu Ora Southern, the free service helps share knowledge and common issues for mothers, for example, latching-on techniques.
Developing a support network for expectant mothers and mothers with newborn babies was part of Tinā-i-Tinā’s service.
"So they are building their own connection and network."
Mothers and soon-to-be mothers are invited to meet for a breastfeeding morning tea taking place from 9.30am to 11am on Tuesday, June 13 at Pacific Trust Otago, 16 McBride St, South Dunedin.
A breastfeeding antenatal class is also taking place on Saturday, July 22 from 9am to noon at Pacific Trust Otago.
The breastfeeding peer-support programme is open to all Pasifika women.
For more information visit pto.nz or phone (03) 455-1722.
