National's claims pregnant women's lives are being put in danger following a third emergency birth in Lumsden

Clutha Southland MP Hamish Walker says only one midwife was on hand today to help as a mother gave birth in the car park of the downgraded maternity centre.

He says the new mum was discharged hours later as there is no longer any post-natal care there.

Walker says the new hub model isn't fit-for-purpose and rural people in Southland are being treated like second-class citizens.

He's renewing his pleas to the Prime Minister to reinstate full services at the maternity centre.