After decades of operation Morrinsville's Rhoda Read Birthing Unit will close at the end of business hours next Friday.

The Waikato DHB acknowledges and thanks the significant effort from all staff, past and present, in providing safe quality care for mothers and their babies.

Morrinsville's Rhoda Read Birthing Unit will shut down next Friday after decades of operation. Photo: Waikato DHB

'We wish all current staff the very best in the future, particularly our charge midwife manager Shirley Hopping,” says the DHB. 'We also thank the many service clubs and organisations who donated equipment, furnishing or other items such as artwork to make women's stay safe and comfortable.”

The board is also recognising the enormous amount of support the unit received from Morrinsville locals and the surrounding communities.

For families requiring maternity service, the DHB recommends discussing options with your Lead Maternity Carer.

Birthing services still remain available at the Thames Birthing Unit, along with Hamilton centres River Ridge Birthing Centre, Waterford Birth Centre and the Waikato Hospital.

In a maternity emergency dial 111 for an ambulance.