Healthcare and ACC for Working Holidaymakers in New Zealand

New Zealand healthcare has two separate parts to understand: ACC, which may cover eligible accidental injuries, and publicly funded health services, which depend on your visa and circumstances. A Working Holiday Visa does not automatically make every holder eligible for publicly funded care.

Check your eligibility for publicly funded care

Some Working Holiday schemes make medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance a visa condition; the requirement and exceptions depend on the scheme. Read the current Immigration New Zealand conditions and our WHV requirements guide before travel. Insurance is also worth considering where it is not a visa condition.

ACC covers accidents — not illness

For an injury, get medical care and ask the provider about making an ACC claim and any co-payment or other charges. For illness or costs outside ACC’s scope, check what your own insurance covers and what exclusions apply.

What things cost without public healthcare

Costs depend on eligibility, the provider and the care needed. Before booking routine care, ask the clinic what it charges for someone with your eligibility status and whether any ACC or insurance claim applies. Do not assume enrolling with a GP is free or that every treatment will be publicly funded.

What to actually do

1. Check public healthcare eligibility against the current Ministry of Health criteria.
2. Check your visa’s insurance condition with Immigration New Zealand and read the policy wording for exclusions, activities, work, and repatriation.
3. Ask clinics about fees and eligibility before routine appointments; do not assume a standard subsidised price.
4. Keep your visa, insurance and emergency contact details accessible while travelling.

Where to go next

• WHV requirements: funds, insurance, medical — explained
• Your first week in New Zealand: exact to-do list
• How much money you need for a working holiday in NZ

This page is general information, not medical or insurance advice. Confirm your eligibility with the Ministry of Health, visa conditions with Immigration New Zealand, and claim details with ACC and your insurer.