How long must a birth mother wait before giving consent for adoption?

In New Zealand, a birth mother must wait 12 days after the birth of her child before she can give formal consent for adoption. This waiting period is stipulated in the Adoption Act and is designed to ensure that the mother has sufficient time to consider her decision. The rationale behind this requirement is to provide an opportunity for reflection, allowing the mother to evaluate the emotional and practical implications of placing her child for adoption.

By waiting for 12 days, the legislation acknowledges the profound nature of this decision and aims to protect the best interests of both the mother and the child. It serves as a safeguard against hasty decisions made in the immediate aftermath of childbirth, which can be a time of significant emotional upheaval. After this period, if the mother still believes that adoption is the best choice for her child, she can then proceed to provide her consent, thereby ensuring that the decision is made with careful consideration.