New Zealand woman caught up in 'appalling' invasive examination at Doha airport after discovery of newborn baby

A New Zealand woman has been confirmed as one of a growing number of people allegedly subjected to 'inhumane' medical examinations following the discovery of a newborn baby at an airport in Doha, Qatar.

It's understood females onboard flights preparing to depart Hamad International Airport (HIA) were told to remove their underwear and undergo an invasive examination by Qatari authorities in an attempt to locate the baby's mother.

New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) said they learned of the development overnight.

"A New Zealand national was involved in the appalling incident involving female passengers on several Qatar Airways flights. This action was completely unacceptable," a spokesperson said. 

"We are making our views known to Qatari authorities and are seeking a full report on what occurred."

MFAT says the New Zealand Embassy in Abu Dhabi is in contact with the New Zealander.

It was initially thought that the incident was limited to one Australian-bound flight, however it's now believed women onboard potentially 10 flights underwent similar checks.