New Zealand's minister for women needed to get to the hospital to give birth, so she took a bicycle!
New Zealand’s minister for women, Julie Anne Genter, decided to ride a bicycle to hospital to give birth to her first child. Julie decided to ride there as “there wasn’t enough space in the car". She even took to Instagram to share pictures of her bike ride with her partner, Peter Nunns. She captioned the picture: "Beautiful Sunday morning for a bike ride, to the hospital, for an induction to finally have this baby. This is it, wish us luck!" Julie added that not only did the bike ride allowed her to enjoy the day, it also put her in the best mood possible. Julie was saved from overextending herself thanks to an electric bike and taking a route that was “mostly downhill.”
Julie, who is also the associate transport minister, reportedly told Ardern and Green co-leader James Shaw about the pregnancy on the same day the PM announced her own in January. "Clearly there’s something in the water at [Parliament restaurant] Bellamy’s," she said, as reported by the New York Post. People were quick to comment on the post as many thought that it was a wonderful idea.
"I am very happy at your situation to hope your baby comes to our world fine and healthy congratulate to you and partner," wrote one. Another added, "A wonderful inspiration to women world over! Hope your baby is lovely and that you continue to change and inspire women, men and children in moving forward towards good health, a good sport, and human rights. Right on, sister!"
There were others who wittily suggested that it would be a bad idea to fit the child in the basket during their return. "Great support crew, very thoughtful. Lucky for you it wasn't raining. The baby should fit in the basket for the home journey. That would make headlines also," read one comment. Julie and Peter posted another picture on their Instagram and announced that they had welcomed a son.
"We’re overjoyed to announce the safe arrival of our son at 18.03 this evening, weighing almost 4.3kg. We waited a very long time for labor to start, but when it did it was short and sharp. We are so grateful for the lovely staff at Auckland Hospital who provided wonderful care, for the incredibly experienced independent midwife who supported us the whole way, and for our amazing friends and family. All of you have been so generous!" read the post.
People were quick to congratulate the couple. "Congratulations on your pēpē! Wishing you all the best," read one comment. Another comment read, "What an absolutely beautiful family you make. Congratulations to you both and welcome to the world little pēpē" A third chimed in, "Wish you and Peter many many congratulations! We are so happy for you and hope both you and your son are doing well. Lots of love and regards from all of us."