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Private health insurance is not a necessity in New Zealand as the government provides a public health service. As the scheme is funded for New Zealand residents, people who are not permanent residents can be charged for their healthcare.

In anycase, there is often a shortfall between the amount of the refund from the public health service and the actual cost. While this sum may be small for some services (for example, a visit to a GP), for major surgery the shortfall may be very large and therefore many residents choose to complement the state scheme with private insurance.

There are many companies in New Zealand that offer healthcare and it will depend on the risk you want to cover and your financial capabilities: medical insurance products range from expensive comprehensive plans to budget hospital only plans.

Travel Insurance can help protect you while you are away for a short period of time. You will find more details in our Travel Guide.