FAQs and quick answers
Why do you have to be eligible for public healthcare to get Southern Cross health insurance?
In New Zealand, health insurance is designed to complement the public health system, not to replace it, so we only offer health insurance to people eligible for free public healthcare in New Zealand.
If someone tells us they’re eligible for public healthcare when they aren’t, it can cause problems. For example, they might go to a public hospital for an acute problem – like appendicitis – and claim for their acute care, which we don’t cover. They would then be left with the hospital bill, which could cost them thousands of dollars.
If you aren’t eligible for public healthcare, you may be able to take out visitors insurance offered through Southern Cross Travel Insurance. If you're unsure of your eligibility, please contact the Ministry of Health on 0800 855 066 or [email protected].
