Health officials and the parents of an immobile five-year-old girl are in a dispute over her care.

Ana-Carolina has been in Starship Hospital for most of her life because of a mystery condition that's left her immobile, despite having a healthy mind.

Her parents want her moved to a rehabilitation centre, but the Auckland District Health Board wants her in a respite unit.

Her father Peter Bircham told Mike Hosking he believes health officials will take the case to court.

"It has been a tough and difficult five years. Every day is a struggle."

A DHB spokeswoman wouldn't talk about proposed court action, but says they remain focused on Ana-Carolina's best interests.

LISTEN ABOVE AS PETER BIRCHAM SPEAKS TO MIKE HOSKING