The Midwives Union says hospital maternity spaces are unique and need to be protected

Staff at Wellington Hospital have been told maternity overflow space will be re-purposed as 12 emergency bed.

Health NZ argues beds are often empty - and every woman who needs a bed will still be able to access one.

Midwives Union co-leader Caroline Conroy says this could create risks.

She says those units are usually kept separate to prevent infections for babies and new mums.