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Chapter 6 of 15

Health Insurance & Healthcare

Public healthcare, ACC, GP, private supplement

Summary

New Zealand has a public healthcare system that is largely free for residents (residence visa holders and work visa holders of 2+ years). The general practitioner (GP) is the gateway to the system. Hospital care is free, but GP visits cost money. ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) covers all accident-related healthcare costs. Private insurance is optional but popular for faster access.

What you need to know

Public healthcare

Who is entitled to public healthcare?

  • Residence visa holders: full entitlement
  • Work visa holders (2+ years): entitled to public healthcare
  • Work visa holders (<2 years): limited entitlement (emergency care and ACC only)
  • Working Holiday: ACC and emergency care only
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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • IRD Number (Tax Number)

    The New Zealand tax number. Required for working (otherwise 45% tax), opening a bank account and KiwiSaver. Apply online at Inland Revenue after arrival.

  • ACC (Accident Compensation)

    The New Zealand accident insurance system. Covers all residents and visitors for accident injuries. Funded via taxes and levies. You cannot sue for injury.

  • KiwiSaver (Retirement Savings)

    The New Zealand retirement savings plan. You contribute 3-10% of your salary, your employer minimum 3%. Can also be used for your first home. Automatically enrolled when you start working.

  • NHI Number (Health Index Number)

    Your New Zealand health number. Automatically assigned at your first healthcare contact. Links all your medical records in the national system.

  • Skilled Migrant Category Visa

    The main work visa for skilled migrants to New Zealand. Points system based on age, education, work experience and job offer. Your occupation must be on the Skill Shortage List.

  • NZQA (Qualifications Authority)

    The New Zealand qualifications authority. If you want to use your Dutch diplomas in NZ, you must have them assessed by NZQA. Takes 4-6 weeks, costs ~$270 NZD.

  • Inland Revenue (NZ Tax Authority)

    The New Zealand tax authority. Tax year runs from April 1 to March 31. NZ has a relatively simple tax system with progressive rates from 10.5% to 39%.

  • Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

    The New Zealand immigration service. Processes all visa applications, residence permits and work permits. Applications via the online portal.

  • Tenancy Bond (Rental Deposit)

    The New Zealand rental deposit: maximum 4 weeks rent. Must be lodged with Tenancy Services (government), not with the landlord. Protects your money.

  • WOF (Warrant of Fitness)

    The New Zealand vehicle inspection (MOT). Mandatory annually (or biannually for cars older than 2000). Without a valid WOF you may not drive and are not insured.

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