Travel Insurance
With the exclusion of accidental injury, hospital and medical services in New Zealand are not free for international visitors. In the case of an accident New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) scheme will cover medical and hospital bills – but not loss of income during treatment.
Before travelling to New Zealand it is advisable to organise travel insurance with a provider in your home country.
New Zealand has a wide range of public and private hospitals. Depending on your country of residence, international visitors may be charged for using the public hospital system.
There is a free 24-hour phone service called Health Line (0800 611 116) which provides free health advice 24 hours a day for anyone who is unsure whether they or the people they are with need medical attention. Health Line is staffed by registered nurses and is free.
General Health & Wellbeing
Weather: New Zealand weather is extremely variable, hence the saying “four seasons in one day”. Weather conditions can alter drastically at any time, so be prepared for any temperature.
Mosquitoes: In wet, warm areas sand flies and mosquitoes can become pests. Although they are not dangerous, it is best to carry insect repellent, especially in National Parks and marsh lands.
Giardia: Some rivers, lakes and streams contain Giardia, a water parasite which causes diarrhoea. Always boil or purify lake or river water before drinking.
Sun Protection: New Zealand has an extremely high UV rating and care should be taken when spending prolonged periods in the sun. Hats and sunscreen should be worn if you are planning on spending longer than 15 minutes outdoors.
Medication: Visitors entering the country with supplies of personal medication are advised to obtain a doctor's certificate to avoid Customs concerns.
Contacts: A full list of local medical and healthcare contacts can be found in the front of the telephone book.
Vaccinations
Visitors to New Zealand do not require vaccinations.
Diseases carried by insects - such as Malaria, Dengue Fever and Ross River virus – are not found in New Zealand. If you intend to travel on to Australia or other parts of the Pacific, however, you should take precautions against these kinds of tropical diseases.
Health Services
Hospitals
Hospitals in New Zealand are world-class, though treatment for non-New Zealanders is not free (apart from accidental injuries, which are covered by ACC).
Pharmacies
Pharmacies, located in every town or city, are often referred to as “chemists” in New Zealand. Pharmacists in New Zealand are trained professionals and the level of care and service is world-class.
Medication
Although some drugs can be purchased over the counter, most require a doctor’s prescription. Basic pain killers, vitamins and first aid supplies (such as band-aids) can be purchased at pharmacies or most supermarkets.
Hours of Operation
Most chemists or pharmacies are open during regular business hours (9am to 5pm), with some open after hours.
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