Day 5: Healthcare 🏥
Healthcare works differently in NZ. Don't wait until you're sick — get enrolled now.
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check your health eligibility
Immigration NZ: "Public health care and disability services are provided free, or at a reduced cost, to citizens and most people with resident visas." Check health.govt.nz/eligibility. Working holiday visas: limited or no public health coverage — you NEED insurance.
Docs: Visa type Time: 15 min - 21
Enrol with a GP (doctor)
Find a local GP accepting new patients. Use Healthpoint.co.nz. Enrolling = cheaper visits ($19–60 vs $100+ for casual). Immigration NZ: "Call Healthline on 0800 611 116" if you need help finding one.
Docs: Passport, visa, proof of address Time: 30 min - 22
Get travel/health insurance
If your visa doesn't give you public health access (most working holiday visas don't), get insurance NOW. Orbit Protect and Southern Cross are common. Immigration NZ: "We strongly advise you to have comprehensive travel insurance, including full medical cover."
Docs: — Time: 20 min - 23
Save emergency numbers
111 (ambulance/fire/police), Healthline 0800 611 116 (24/7 nurse advice — free), local GP number.
Docs: — Time: 5 min