How to access healthcare
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When to get medical advice
If you need urgent medical assistance for severe symptoms of any kind, or have a serious injury, call emergency services on 111, or go straight to hospital.
If you’re concerned about any aspect of your health, call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116. All calls to Healthline are free and someone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Minor health issues can become more serious if ignored and it’s important that you have the treatments and medications you need. You should not delay seeking help for any health needs.
Call Plunketline if you have questions about your child or baby’s health or wellbeing on 0800 933 922 and speak to a Plunket nurse. Plunketline runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact your midwife for support and advice during pregnancy and after birth.
If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms, call your doctor or the dedicated COVID-19 Healthline number on 0800 358 5453 and organise to get tested.
Flu vaccinations
Flu vaccinations continue to be an important part in uniting to recover from the effects of COVID-19. For more information on the 2020 flu campaign, and to see if you’re eligible for a free vaccination, visit the Fight Flu website.
Health services
General practices, community health and addiction services are open.
Health services trialled new ways of working during Alert Levels and discovered benefits for patients. Many services may continue to be provided by telephone or online for convenience. Talk to your provider about what works best for you both.
Hospitals are open for all emergency and outpatient care. Hygiene and infection control practices will remain in place to keep everyone safe.
Mental health and addiction in-patient and residential services are open.
Allied health providers such as physiotherapists, dietitians and dentists are also open.
Mental wellbeing
People will have had different experiences over the last few months. Whatever you’re feeling — it’s okay. It’s normal to feel anxious or stressed following times of difficulty, but there are things you can do to look after your mental wellbeing.
Getting medical care when your visa has expired
It’s important that anyone with health concerns contact Healthline for free on 0800 611 116 or their doctor immediately.
District health boards (DHBs) will not share any information about the immigration status of individuals with Immigration New Zealand. You should seek medical advice if you’re unwell.
Your treatment will be in complete confidence and your information will not be passed on to other agencies.
Find the latest health information
Are you or your whānau unwell? The best ways to get support are to:
- in an emergency, always call 111.
- call your family doctor for advice or information on all aspects of your health.
- you can also call the general Healthline number on 0800 611 116. All calls to Healthline are free and someone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- call Plunketline if you have questions about your child or baby’s health or wellbeing on 0800 933 922 and speak to a Plunket nurse. Plunketline runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- contact your midwife for support and advice during pregnancy and after birth.
- call the dedicated COVID-19 Healthline number with any COVID-19 health-related concerns on 0800 358 5453. If you’re outside New Zealand call +64 9 358 5453.
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