I’m Anna-Lena!

I grew up in Japan and Germany but have been living now for most of my life in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the mystery and magic around pregnancy and birth. Since I was 15years old, I’ve been attending births during school breaks and have completed my midwifery training in Germany in 2007.

I love a great adventure and new cultures, which motivated me to travel lots and learn more from wise midwives around the world. Working in places like India and South Sudan has really deepened my belief in the incredible power and ability of women in birthing our babies. This has set me even further on my path of supporting the natural birth process, to hold space for informed choices and to support families on their individual birthing journeys.

How did I get into acupuncture? My mum has been practicing Chinese Medicine for over 30 years, so I really grew up with this. I’ve completed my training in Obstetric Acupuncture in 2010 and it’s one of the many tools I have in my midwifery kete. It’s safe to use in pregnancy, effective and drug free. I run The Maternity Acupuncture Clinic every Thursday, based at River Ridge East Birth Centre.

I’m a proud Māmā of two great little kids, both born at home, and live with my family in Hamilton East. I’m deeply grateful to my partner and family for supporting me on my midwifery journey, since it’s surely not a 9-5 job.

In my little spare time, I love spending time with my family and friends, doing yoga and recharge in nature and in my garden. Add a bit of great music, good food and some dancing and my life feels complete.