Healthcare System in New Zealand: everything you need to know

How does the healthcare system work?

New Zealand, like Australia, has a public health system that is free for citizens and permanent residents. The system is regionally administered and financed mainly by public funds. It covers services including outpatient, inpatient, mental health, prescription drugs and long-term care.

The government establishes an annual budget and benefit package, and then the 20 district health boards are responsible for planning, purchasing and providing health services at the local level. Patients must pay co-payments for some services and products, but not a deductible.

For those enrolled with a private health care provider, they have control over when and where they receive treatment for any health problem. It gives them the flexibility to choose the doctor or specialist at their preferred hospital.

How does the system work for foreigners?

If a foreigner is not elegible for the public health system, meaning that they are not a permanent resident, he/she must enter the country with travel insurance, or an international health insurance plan. If they don’t  not have insurance, they will be able to be treated in health centers but will have to pay for the services.

To be eligible for the subsidized health care system, a person must meet the following requirements: 

• Must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
•  Hold a work visa that allows you to work for 2 years or more.
• Hold a visa that allows you to work for 2 years or more plus the time you spent in New Zealand prior to receiving your current work visa. That is, if you had a one year work visa and now have another one that allows you to stay for another year, you also qualify.
•  If you are under 17 years of age and your parent or guardian is eligible. 
• You are a provisional visa holder if you were eligible just before you received the provisional visa.
• Be a refugee or protected person.

What do I do if I have an emergency in New Zealand?

The emergency line in New Zealand is 111. By dialing this number you will have access to police, fire or ambulance service in case of any emergency. Even if you dial 911 you will be redirected to the emergency service.

For non-emergency events, call 105 for general inquiries, or for police assistance. 

How do pharmacies work in New Zealand?

Some medicines prescribed in your home country may not be available in NZ pharmacies, therefore the government recommends that if you are going to stay in the country for a longer period of time, you visit a doctor soon after your arrival who can prescribe an alternative medication for your treatment.

All medications approved by the local Ministry of Health can be found in a pharmacy. A pharmacist is always available to advise you and approve your prescription. If you need medical advice, it may be more convenient to visit a pharmacy, as the pharmacist is more available than a doctor and can also provide and recommend medications.

If you are entering the country with medication, you should declare it on your arrival card. Have everything you need at hand to prove to the local authorities that the medication is required for your medical treatment or that of a companion. You must also prove that it was legally prescribed in your country of origin, and finally, that you have no more than a month's supply with you.

To prove this, always carry the prescription or a letter from the doctor stating the characteristics of the medication and that you are being treated with it. Also remember to carry the medication in its original box with a description of the characteristics. 

Entry Requirements

Depending on whether you are going to study, work or visit New Zealand, you will most likely require a visa to enter. In the following link you can see the options and requirements for each type of visa.

You are not required to be vaccinated against Covid-19, you just need to fill out the traveler's declaration at the point of entry.