Forty-one minute after the clock struck 12 on New Year’s Day, Kalesi Vuki Driu of Malomalo, Nadroga, welcomed a baby daughter at the Nadi Hospital.

Mrs Driu, who lives in Togomasi, Nadi, said she was expecting her little bundle of joy on New Year’s Eve but was happy that her 3.54 kilogram daughter came out healthy.

“As long as she is healthy, I’m happy,” said the mother of four.

“We haven’t decided on a name yet, but I thank the Lord for giving us another child.

“I want to also thank the nurses and midwives at the hospital for taking care of us.

“We are starting 2023 with a big blessing from the God.”

According to staff at the Nadi Hospital, three newborns were welcomed on New Year’s at their maternity ward.