Healthcare
New Zealand — Healthcare: Public Healthcare
Health system indicators for New Zealand, from World Bank Open Data: current health expenditure 10.1 % of GDP (2024); government share of current health expenditure 78 % (2023); out-of-pocket share of current health expenditure 13 % (2024); physicians 3.6 per 1,000 people (2022); hospital beds 2.5 per 1,000 people (2023); life expectancy at birth 82.0 years (2024).
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceWorld Bank — World Development Indicators (World Bank Open Data)Last reviewed: 2026-10-18
Why this matters
A relocating person may need to understand what is covered and what is not, as this can impact healthcare costs and access.
Key facts
- Current health expenditure: 10.1 % of GDP (2024)
- Government share of current health expenditure: 78 % (2023)
- Out-of-pocket share of current health expenditure: 13 % (2024)
- Physicians: 3.6 per 1,000 people (2022)
- Hospital beds: 2.5 per 1,000 people (2023)
- Life expectancy at birth: 82.0 years (2024)
Steps
- Obtaining a Medical Certificate (Blue Card) — To be eligible for public healthcare, a relocating person may need to obtain a Medical Certificate (Blue Card) which confirms their eligibility for public healthcare and the services they are entitled to.
- Registering with a GP — It is recommended to register with a General Practitioner (GP) as soon as possible after arrival to receive comprehensive healthcare services.
Costs
- GP and specialist consultations: free for those with a Blue Card, otherwise costs apply
Timelines
- Obtaining a Blue Card: varies, can take several weeks to several months
Required documents
- Passport
- Visa
- Proof of residency
Common mistakes
- Assuming that a Blue Card is required for all public healthcare services
- Not registering with a GP as soon as possible after arrival
What these figures do not cover
These are national statistics. Who is eligible for the public system, how a foreign resident enrols, what it costs and waiting times are not covered here.