Hospitals
New Zealand has around 40 public hospitals spread across the country in cities and larger towns.With minor exceptions, such as some kinds of cosmetic surgery, hospital treatment is free for those eligible for health care services.
Nobody can be refused emergency care because they are unable to pay. But if you are not a New Zealand resident, you may have to pay for some services. If you are not eligible for health care services, we strongly recommend you take out a travel medical insurance policy.
Hospitals provide care for emergencies, serious health problems and illnesses. Their services include emergency departments and medical, surgical and maternity services. Waiting times for surgery vary from hospital to hospital. If your case is urgent, you will be put on an urgent waiting list.As well as the public hospitals, there are many private hospitals around New Zealand that you can access if you have health insurance.