tourist medical insurance nz

HOSPITAL VISITING

All hospital visitors are recommended to wear a medical face mask. For more information about visiting: Visitors and family .  See our COVID-19 page for general COVID-19 advice, detailed hospital visiting guidelines and COVID-19 tests.

See West Coast COVID-19 vaccination clinics for info on vaccinations link COVID-19 Vaccination • West Coast • Healthpoint

Last updated: 16 September 2022

Fewer visitor restrictions now apply

For visitors to all facilities (effective from and last updated on 16 september 2022).

Some visitor restrictions for all Te Whatu Ora Te Tai o Poutini West Coast health facilities remain in place, but we have relaxed others.

There is still a heightened risk to vulnerable people in hospital and so people must continue to wear a mask when visiting any of our facilities and follow other advice designed to keep patients, staff and other visitors safe.

Kia whakahaumaru te whānau, me ngā iwi katoa – this is to keep everybody safe:

• Visitors or support people must not visit our facilities if they are unwell. Do not visit if you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 and haven’t completed your isolation period.
• Patients in single rooms may have more than one visitor while patients in multi-bed rooms can have one visitor only per patient to ensure there is no overcrowding.
• People can have one or two support people to accompany them to outpatients appointments.
• Women in labour in a birthing suite, in Te Nīkau Hospital’s Maternity Ward and in Buller’s Kawatiri Maternity Unit can have the usual support people, subject to space, for the duration of their stay in our facilities.
• Eating or drinking at the bedside is at the discretion of the Clinical Nurse Manager. Visitors must not eat or drink in multibed rooms because of the increased risk when multiple people remove their mask in the same space.
• Hand sanitiser is available and must be used.

Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding as our staff work hard to protect and care for some of the most vulnerable in our community.

Mask wearing

• Surgical/medical masks must be worn at all sites, except in counselling, mental health and addiction services where it’s on a case-by-case agreement with patients. Masks will be provided if you don’t have one. In higher-risk environments, people, including young children, may not be able to visit if they cannot wear a mask.
• Any member of the public with a mask exemption is welcome in all our facilities when attending to receive health care and *treatment . Please show your mask exemption card and appointment letter to staff at the entrance. *Treatment includes coming into the Emergency Department, outpatient appointments, surgery or a procedure.

Visiting patients with COVID-19

• People are able to visit patients who have COVID-19 but they must wear an N95 mask – this will be provided if you don’t have one.
• Other methods of communication will be facilitated e.g. phone, Facetime, Zoom, WhatsApp etc where visits aren’t possible.

You must NOT visit our facilities if you

• are COVID-19 positive
• are unwell. Please stay home if you have a tummy bug or cold or flu/COVID-19-like symptoms (even if you’ve tested negative for COVID-19).

Te Whatu Ora West Coast Aged Residential Care facilities

Visitors are welcome at our Aged Care Residential facilities, subject to the space available. All visitors must wear a surgical mask.

More COVID-19 information

• Latest advice: Symptoms, prevention, treatment, how it spreads & more
• Contact tracing
• Countries and areas of concern
• COVID-19 Testing
• COVID-19 Vaccinations
• Face mask and hygiene advice
• Home care information
• Managing your mental wellbeing
• Questions and answers
• Self-isolation information
• Visit my Covid Record

I'm not well, where do I go?

Grazed knee, light cough, go to healthinfo.co.nz

Diarrhoea, runny nose, hayfever, sore throat

Phone Advice 24/7

Unwell? Call your practice to talk to a nurse after hours

General Practice

Non-urgent health concerns, ear pain, fever

Hospital Emergency

Serious accidents, chest pains, stroke call 111

• Healthcare for tourists and visitors to New Zealand
• Your health
• Health system

Healthcare for tourists is covered for accidental injuries.  Everyone in New Zealand, including visitors, is covered for medical care for accidental injuries through ACC. When you visit a doctor or hospital for an injury, you will be asked to fill out a form so ACC can pay for your treatment. There may still be some cost to you.

You will have to pay for healthcare for illnesses, and it is highly recommended you have travel insurance.

If you have a work visa for more than two years, you may be eligible for other health subsidies and benefits. See the Ministry of Health’s eligibility guide .

At hospital, an Interpreter Service is available for tourists and visitors to New Zealand who do not speak fluent English. Please ask a nurse for an interpreter.

How do I pay?

If you have to go to hospital during your stay in New Zealand, staff will discuss the cost of treatment with you during your stay. You will get an invoice when you are discharged from hospital.

Tags ACC eligibility interpreter tourists visitors

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Page last updated: 9 January 2024

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Pre Existing Conditions

Pre-Existing Condition/s means, in relation to you or any other person on whom your travel depends, any medical or physical conditions or circumstances:

• which you are aware of, or ought to have been aware of; or
• for which advice, care, treatment, medication or medical attention has been sought, given or recommended; or
• which have been diagnosed as a medical condition, or an illness or indicative of an illness; or
• which are of such a nature to require, or which potentially may require medical attention; or
• which are of such a nature as would have caused a prudent, reasonable person to seek medical attention

Our Privacy Statement

This policy is issued/underwritten by nib nz limited (“nib”).

Uni-Care and nib are committed to safeguarding your Privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information. Uni-Care and nib are bound by the Privacy Act 1993 and its principles. We collect and handle your personal information for the purpose of assessing your application for insurance and administering your insurance policy, including any claims made by you.

If you don’t provide all information requested then we may not be able to assess your application and provide you with the requested insurance.

The Privacy Act 1993 gives you the right to access and correct personal information held by us. Please contact us if you would like to access or revise your personal information or believe that the information we currently have on record is incorrect or incomplete.

The Privacy Officer nib nz limited Level 10, 48 Shortland Street Auckland 1010 New Zealand Email: [email protected]

The Privacy Officer Uni-Care/ Crombie Lockwood Limited Level 23, 191 Queen Street Auckland 1010 New Zealand Phone +64 9 358 2259

DECLARATION (Please read carefully)

• You have not been refused Travel Insurance by any other company nor are you insuring with the intention of receiving medical treatment or to claim for events which have already occurred.
• You are not aware of any circumstances likely to lead to cancellation or curtailment of the trip. The underwriter is aware of all facts likely to affect the acceptance or conditions of this insurance. You will notify the underwriter of changes in circumstances or health occurring prior to your commencement date.
• You confirm details have been correctly declared in this application form including the Medical Certificate incorporated in this document to be submitted for approval by the underwriter.
• You agree, in the event of illness or injury giving rise to claims under the medical section of the policy, to be medically evacuated to Australia, New Zealand or your Country of Origin, as applicable, at the underwriters discretion.
• You agree to a waiver of privacy in that you consent to any requested medical information being released by your doctor, specialist, or other health provider to the Underwriter or its agent and to the release of any further information necessary for the purposes of this insurance.
• You authorise any claim to be paid to any named institution which has submitted claim details and requested payment to be made to them on your behalf.
• You accept that failure to supply correct application and medical certificate details may affect the validity of the policy.
• You have certain rights of access to and correction of this information.
• You understand that this policy does not cover any event, which happens to you unless you, at the date of such event, are aged 65 years or under.
• You understand and agree that the act of transmitting this application to Uni-Care, by activating the 'Submit Application' button on the web application form, will have the legal force of a signature.
• You have read and understood and accepted the above statements and accept responsibility for all the information provided in this application.

NZ Student – an individual policy to cover students, under 60 years of age, to study, travel and temporarily reside in New Zealand. Includes cover in transit for a maximum period of 9 days each way from your country of origin.

NZ Visitor – an individual or family policy to cover travellers, under 65 years of age, who are visiting, working or temporarily residing in New Zealand. Includes cover in transit for a maximum period of 9 days each way from your country of origin.

Australasian – an individual or family policy to cover travellers, under 65 years of age, who are visiting, working or temporarily residing in Australia or New Zealand. Includes cover in transit for a maximum of 9 days to and from your country of origin.

NZ Visitor Plan

For travellers visiting, working or temporarily residing in New Zealand

The NZ Visitor Plan protects travellers who are visiting, working or temporarily residing in New Zealand.

Uni-Care’s NZ Visitor Plan policy is designed to protect visitors to New Zealand and their families against unexpected events and the costs that accompany them. The policy provides cover for non New Zealand residents aged 65 years or under who Travel to visit, work and temporarily reside in New Zealand. Cover is not provided for manual or dangerous work or Hazardous leisure pursuits.

Apply for NZ Visitor Plan online

Things You Should Know

+ Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Pre-existing medical conditions are not automatically covered. Cover may be granted upon application – if you have a pre-existing medical condition please make sure you provide full details in your online application . If you have already applied for your policy but the policy has not started yet, and become aware of a pre-existing medical condition please complete a Medical Declaration online to enquire about obtaining cover.

+ High Value Items Need to be Specified

Your luggage is covered for up to $30,000 in total but individual items, sets, or pairs of items are limited to $2,500 for each individual item, set, or pair of items unless the items are specified and additional premium is paid.

+ Where will I be covered?

NZ Visitor Plan has been designed to cover you from the date you leave home for New Zealand until you return to your country of origin. If you plan on visiting Australia then you will need to upgrade to an Australasian Plan for the period of cover you require.

Get a Quote

+ NZ Visitor Plan Cover Summary

Insurance is about protecting you from the unexpected. Uni-Care has been protecting visitors to New Zealand who come to work, visit or temporarily reside for more than 20 years. NZ Visitor Plan is designed to help when things go wrong a long way from home.

Please refer to the policy document for full terms and conditions of this cover.

Medical Care

If you unexpectedly become ill, or suffer an accident or injury, you won’t have to worry about paying for your qualifying medical care. NZ Visitor Plan will pay your qualifying medical costs.

Unexpected Return Home

If you were to suffer a serious injury or illness and needed to go home then NZ Visitor Plan would help by taking care of the costly expenses involved, allowing you and your family to focus on your recovery. If one of your immediate family suffered a critical illness or injury or died then the policy would also help get you home quickly.

Loss of Deposits

If illness or injury means you are unable to take part in planned travel activities the policy would reimburse your non-refundable loss.

NZ Student Plan covers your personal effects for loss or damage to $30,000 but individual items, sets, or pairs of items are limited to $2,500 for each individual item, set, or pair of items unless the items are specified.

Personal Liability

If you accidentally damage property belonging to someone else then tell us what has happened and let us manage negotiations and costs with the other party or their insurer.

Rental Car Excess

Rental car excesses can be costly – you can claim up to $5,000 liability for rental car excess payment.

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Terms & Conditions

Health insurance for visitors to New Zealand: Do you need it?

Should I buy health insurance before I visit New Zealand? What cover would I need and how would I get it?

You’ve planned your visit to New Zealand down to the finest details: flights, accommodation, activities, and how to get from one part of that beautiful country to another. But what about health insurance? If you fall ill and need medical treatment, will you be able to afford it - or even access it?

The short answer is: possibly not. One thing you can’t plan for is illness or accidents – both of which can result in overwhelming stress when you are travelling internationally.

Health | Life | Trauma | Total and Permanent Disability | Income Protection

Learn more on different types of insurance from an expert licenced financial adviser and see what's best for your circumstances.

Learn more about different types of insurance from a licenced financial adviser and see what's best for your circumstances.

Why do I need health insurance as a visitor to New Zealand?

Buying health insurance to cover you in the country you intend to visit is a practical decision no matter where in the world you are located. Many short-term health insurance plans can protect you from the cost of medical care, help you access high-quality medical services, and ease some of the anxiety of dealing with unfamiliar healthcare systems.

Consider these points:

• While it’s not mandatory to have health insurance before entering New Zealand as a visitor, most travel advisers would recommend you purchase a policy as an integral part of your travel plans.
• If you already have a health insurance policy in your home country, it’s certainly recommended you revise this plan if it does not extend to treatment abroad.
• The New Zealand Government strongly advises that visitors to New Zealand who are not eligible for publicly funded health services hold comprehensive health insurance.

However, some visitors may be eligible for publicly funded healthcare. Let’s find out if that’s you.

How do I know if I’m eligible for free healthcare in New Zealand as a visitor?

If you don’t hold a private health insurance policy that covers you while visiting New Zealand, can you still rely on the public healthcare system for treatments and medications?

• are ordinarily resident in their own country
• are on a temporary stay in NZ, and 
• require immediately necessary medical treatment for a condition that arose after arrival in New Zealand, or that, without treatment, would have become acutely exacerbated after arrival. The arrangement excludes publicly funded emergency transport by ambulance.
• Some work visa holders are eligible for healthcare provided by the New Zealand public healthcare system. A person who holds a work visa and is staying in New Zealand for two years or more is eligible for publicly funded health and disability services. Once again, check your situation with New Zealand Immigration thoroughly and never assume. 

Can I purchase visitor health insurance for my stay in New Zealand?

Buying visitor health insurance for your trip to New Zealand is an open option for anyone in any country, as long as they meet certain criteria. Some Kiwi insurers only provide cover for New Zealand residents, so if you are a non-resident, you may need to contact several insurers before you can find a suitable plan.

Policywise works with several providers who offer a comprehensive visiting New Zealand health insurance package , open for application by non-NZ residents planning to visit New Zealand for up to two years.

To be eligible for this policy, you must:

• hold a current New Zealand work visa or visitor visa ;
• be exempt from the requirements to hold a visa to New Zealand; or
• be exempt from the requirements to hold a visa to visit New Zealand but must instead hold a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

You are not eligible for this policy if you:

• are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand; or
• are travelling to New Zealand to obtain medical or dental treatment, cosmetic surgery, or related advice; or
• have been advised by a registered medical practitioner that you are not fit to travel.

Embarking on some research before you embark on your journey is a very wise idea. Read the wording on your policy document carefully or consult with a reputable insurance broker, such as Policywise . A Policywise adviser can work through your situation, help you understand if you are eligible for the public health system, and provide you with multiple options to consider from different insurers. Once you’ve figured out your boundaries, you’ll be good to go!

Can I buy NZ visitor medical insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Pre-existing conditions (PECs) are medical or physical conditions you currently have or previously had at the time you buy your insurance - diagnosed or not. They include symptoms you might have asked a doctor about, even if you didn’t receive a formal diagnosis, which may have required medical care.

It is important to know that pre-existing medical conditions are generally not covered under most visiting New Zealand health insurance policies. Some insurers have automatic cover for certain pre-existing conditions, and others may allow you to buy additional cover for pre-existing conditions, although not all insurers provide this service.

Certain providers offer fair health insurance to New Zealand visitors with pre-existing conditions. Although you will not be covered for any claims that are related to or associated with your PECs, don't be discouraged from applying for cover - you might just have to pay an additional premium over and above the base premium charged. 

Below are some illnesses and injuries commonly classified as PECs:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart and vascular illnesses, such as high blood pressure
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Lung illnesses, such as asthma

Remember to declare all pre-existing conditions when applying for health insurance, otherwise, you may not be covered under all or part of your policy. If you are concerned that your pre-existing condition may limit your health cover in New Zealand, touch base with a Policywise adviser. They can help you find the best plan for your needs, so you can forget about what might go wrong, and instead, just relax, and enjoy your time away. 

What visitor health insurance should I buy and who from?

Knowing what insurance cover you need when travelling as a visitor to New Zealand is the first step to buying health insurance. How much is too much and how little is too little?

If you are overseas and planning your trip, go online and book a 5-minute callback with a Policywise adviser who can connect you with an appropriate insurer. Policywise can also help you during claim time - just another simple point to consider as part of your travel planning.

Policywise offers a fast, free service which tells you which insurance provider will tick each box in your checklist. Some of these providers specialise in health insurance for visitors to New Zealand and offer plans which are cost-effective and practical, allowing you to have fun on your holiday without worrying about what will happen if you get sick.

If you are staying in New Zealand for three days or up to 12 months and are not eligible for publicly funded healthcare given visa or residency requirements, some New Zealand insurers offer well-thought-out health insurance packages, specifically designed for tourists, working holiday visitors, workers, international students, prospective residents, and everyone in between.

These plans can provide comprehensive protection from the moment you set out from your home country to the moment you return, offering cover for:

• Medical treatment; doctor, hospital, and daycare treatment costs.
• Evacuation due to illness or injury.
• Prescribed medication.
• Plus the option of add-ons to cover you as a manual worker in general farming (excluding any activity relating to forestry), building and related trades. 

What if I have a visitor visa, student visa, or working holiday visa?

Immigration New Zealand holds full legal sway over the entry requirements of visitors to New Zealand. All visa applications have points of difference, but the following information gives a broad look at why you need to include visitor health insurance in your travel budget.

• When you apply for a visitor visa (for a stay of up to 6 or 9 months), you must declare that you will pay the costs of any healthcare or medical assistance you receive in New Zealand or get health insurance. Immigration New Zealand strongly recommends that you have full medical insurance for the length of your visit.
• A fee-paying student visa (up to 4 years) must have full, evidenced medical and travel insurance for the length of their stay in New Zealand, including repatriation.
• Working holiday visa applicants (12 months), except those applying under the Working Holiday Schemes with Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, or the United Kingdom, are required to hold evidenced medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance throughout their stay in New Zealand. 

Some New Zealand insurers offer excellent medical cover for those visiting or working on a visa valid for more than three months and less than two years. These policies give you all the benefits you’d expect from a quality health insurance product, including cover for urgent treatment in a hospital as well as the option of purchasing add-on plans. 

Talking to an adviser from Policywise is super helpful in guiding you in the direction you need to take in a ‘secure your good health overseas’ sense. A sturdy visitor to New Zealand health insurance plan can offer you cover like this:

• Admission to a private or public hospital for reasons other than surgery.
• Surgical treatment, hospital stays, specialist fees.
• Oral surgery.
• Angiograms, MRI scans, CAT/CT scans, and MP scans up to their individual limits.
• Minor surgery performed by a GP, such as the removal of moles, cysts, and toenails.
• Some offer virtual clinics for online consultation. 

How much cover do I need and how much will it cost?

As a visitor to New Zealand, the cost of your health insurance plan will vary according to your requirements. Consider your overall health at the time of application, whether you have any pre-existing conditions, and how long you plan to stay in New Zealand.

The type of cover purchased determines the premium you’ll pay. Typically, travellers can expect to pay higher premiums when their visit includes high-risk activities (especially those not supervised by a licensed New Zealand operator), or an extended time in the country. Likewise, if you are prone to certain illnesses, it would make sense to have cover for GP visits and prescription medicines. Additionally, older travellers, especially those with medical issues or pre-existing conditions, may need to pay more for their cover.

If you already own a health insurance policy in your home country, you may be able to add on a comprehensive medical travel plan with the same insurer. If not, researching providers in New Zealand (before you arrive!), comparing their policies, budgeting for the right amount of cover, and arranging it is a sensible process.

It might be helpful to access a broker, such as Policywise , who can take all the hassle out of planning the necessary insurance for your trip before you leave. This service is 100% free, it’s fast, and it’s a spot-on way of determining which health insurance provider will best fit your needs. 

Buying visitor health insurance as part of planning for your overseas adventure is pure common sense. Whether you are visiting New Zealand for some time out, as a fee-paying student, or on a working holiday, the evidence is all in favour of having a comprehensive health insurance plan in place before you get there.

While, as a short-term visitor or tourist, you won't be denied entry without health insurance, it’s still a practical decision to check out your options, compare policies, and budget for a good policy so you can enjoy your trip without the stress of wondering how you’ll cope - both financially and physically - if you fall ill. 

How can Policywise help?

Policywise is a 100% free service which tells you which health, life, and disability insurance provider best fits your needs. We offer fast, comprehensive, and easy-to-understand comparisons of all leading providers, and a simple summary clearly recommending which insurer is best for your situation.

Not all insurance policies are the same. Policywise can help you sort out the duds, avoid the lemons, understand the fine print and exclusions, and get the right insurance for you and your family.

We make the important decision of where to buy your insurance super easy. We’ll answer your questions, provide experienced advice, quotes, and comparisons, and manage all the back and forth throughout the application process. Taking out your cover through us means you'll have our lifetime support and claims advocacy, and we'll help you negotiate a positive outcome at claim time. We can also take care of lodging any claims on your behalf and back you up if the going gets tough.

Check out the reviews on our homepage for how other New Zealanders have found our service because now is the time to get your visitor health insurance sorted. Give your family or someone you love the most outstanding financial support possible. Book a 5-minute callback with Policywise today ; our service is fast and free.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Nothing in this blog or on this website is intended as medical, dietary, or financial advice. Although Policywise aims to update our content regularly, you are advised to consult a financial adviser, health professional, or an appropriate specialist before acting on any information herein. They can factor in your personal circumstances or preferences and help guide your decision-making process.

Quickly find the cover that’s best for you

Policywise tells you which health, life or disability insurance best matches your circumstances, 100% free. Talk to one of our insurance advisers to find out which health or life insurance is best for throat cancer, and other serious illnesses.

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand. (n.d.). Publicly funded health and disability services. Retrieved 28/11/2023 https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/our-health-system/publicly-funded-health-and-disability-services/

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand. (n.d.). Guide to eligibility for public health services. Retrieved 28/11/2023 https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/our-health-system/eligibility-for-publicly-funded-health-services/guide-to-eligibility-for-public-health-services#eligibility-for-a-limited-range-of-publicly-funded-health-services

Insuremytrip. (2023, June 22). Travel Insurance for New Zealand. Retrieved 28/11/2023 https://www.insuremytrip.com/destinations/new-zealand-travel-insurance/

ACC NZ. (2022, December 9). If you're a visitor injured in New Zealand. Retrieved 28/11/23 https://www.acc.co.nz/im-injured/what-we-cover/if-youre-a-visitor-injured-in-new-zealand/

New Zealand Immigration. (n.d.). Medical Insurance for Working Holiday Visa. Retrieved 28/11/23 https://www.immigration.govt.nz/formshelp/medical-insurance#:~:text=You%20may%20be%20required%20to,your%20arrival%20in%20New%20Zealand

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• Travel Insurance

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Great options to suit your travel within New Zealand or overseas

Overseas cover & annual multi-trip cover

Our overseas travel covers medical, dental and hospital treatment*, lost luggage, and personal liability, and can get you and your family home in certain emergencies.

Travel a lot? Take out our annual multi-trip option and you’re covered for as many trips as you like, for 12 months.**

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Domestic Cover

If your plans while travelling in New Zealand change unexpectedly, we can cover the cost of cancelling or amending your flight, accommodation or rental car bookings and other expenses, up to $10,000.

Inbound Cover - Visiting NZ

Are you a non-resident visiting friends and family in NZ, or on a working holiday? Our Inbound plan can cover medical and dental expenses, luggage and travel documents, rental vehicle insurance excess, personal liability and more!

Travel Cover During Covid-19

Planning an adventure? Check out our scenario-based FAQs explaining how we could cover you if Covid-19 plays havoc with your trip: AMI Travel Cover and Covid-19 FAQs

Find out before you go – our Covid-19 Benefits Destination Guide explains how AMI Travel cover applies when travelling to different international destinations: Covid-19 Benefits Destination Guide

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Medical and dental expenses

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Luggage and travel documents

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Travel delay

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This is only a summary of benefits provided. Please refer to AMI Travel Policy Wording for full details of the cover provided. Please read the entire document carefully to understand what this policy covers. Importantly, please note that conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits apply.

Specific terms, conditions and exclusions apply to Covid-19. See the policy wording for the most up to date information.

* Cover will not exceed 12 months from the onset of the illness or injury. Medical and dental expenses cover is limited to $1,500 for treatment provided in New Zealand. This $1,500 sub-limit does not apply to our Inbound Plan. ^ Cover chosen applies per policy. See the policy wording . • Item limits apply for any one item, set or pair of items including attached or unattached accessories. You may increase these item limits if you wish. See the policy wording . # If you or your travelling companion are diagnosed with Covid-19 by a qualified medical practitioner and are unable to travel, you can claim cancellation or amendment costs for your prepaid trip up to a benefit limit of $10,000 per policy on an international Plan or $5,000 per policy on a Domestic Plan or if applicable, up to the level of cover purchased for cancellation (whichever is lower). There is also no cover if symptoms or diagnosis occurred prior to buying your policy. ~ The maximum liability collectively 14, 15, and 16 is $15,000 International Plan, and $10,000 on a Domestic Plan

This is only a summary of the benefit provided. Please refer to the policy wording . For details of the cover provided. Please read the entire document carefully to understand what the relevant policy covers. Importantly, please note that conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits apply, and this summary of benefits table may change at any time.

Before you travel

Travel safety

Find out more information about events that may affect you when you travel.

Travel tips

Our team of intrepid Kiwi travellers has come up with a list of handy travel tips to help make your holiday even better.

AMI Travel insurance is underwritten by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited ("ZAIL") incorporated in Australia, ABN 13 000 296 640, trading as Zurich New Zealand. IAG New Zealand Limited (“IAG”), of which AMI is a business division, is not the insurer. IAG receives a commission for the issue of AMI-branded travel policies arranged through Cover-More (NZ) Limited (“Cover-More”). Cover-More administers the policy and acts on behalf of Zurich New Zealand. IAG does not guarantee Zurich New Zealand or Cover-More.

AMI Travel Website Disclaimer 12072022

Limits, sub-limits, conditions, and exclusions apply. Standard excess may apply.

AMI Travel insurance is administered by Cover-More NZ Ltd, underwritten and issued by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL) incorporated in Australia, ABN 13 000 296 640 , trading as Zurich New Zealand. For further information see Zurich New Zealand's financial strength rating .

Any advice is general advice only. Consider the AMI Travel Policy Brochure and wording therein before deciding to buy this product. IAG receives a commission for the issue of AMI branded travel policies arranged through Cover-More (NZ) Limited ("Cover-More").

IAG New Zealand Limited ("IAG"), of which AMI is a business division, is not the insurer. IAG does not guarantee Zurich New Zealand or Cover-More.

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Where are you going.

Worldwide including the Americas, the Caribbean and Antarctica: Antarctica (Cruising), Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Rep, Ecuador, El Salvador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Netherlands Antilles, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, Virgin Islands.

Africa, Middle East, Indian Sub-Continent and Asia (other): Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Azores, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Chad, China, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo (Dem. Rep), Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, India, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Korea (north), Korea (south), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Macau, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mauritania, Mozambique, Maldives, Malawi, Mali, Mongolia, Morocco, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Reunion, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

Europe: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Herzegovina, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Maderia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, Vatican City.

UK: Channel Islands, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, United Kingdom, Wales.

South East Asia, Hong Kong, Japan: Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Nauru, Northern Marianas, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam

South Pacific and Norfolk Island:  Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Niue, Norfolk Island, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Western Samoa.

New Zealand Only:  New Zealand domestic travel

New Zealand Inbound Travellers :   New Zealand

Dates of Travel

Departure date (travel start date).

Single Trip - The date you depart New Zealand

Cover under the Amendment or Cancellation Costs benefit begins from the time you buy your policy. Cover under all other sections begins from the Travel Start Date you select.

Annual Multi-Trip - The date your policy will commence

Cover under the Amendment or Cancellation Costs benefit begins from the time you buy your policy. For further information, we recommend you read the definition of "Relevant Time" in the Policy Wording.

Return date - (Travel end date)

Single Trip - The date you return to your home

Annual Multi-Trip

Regardless of what you enter as the Return date, you will be quoted for a 12 month Annual Multi-Trip policy.

For further information we recommend that you read the definition of "Relevant Time" in the Policy Wording.

Traveller Details

Age of each traveller at issue date

Simply enter the age of each traveller including children.

Only use as many boxes as you have travellers.

Do all travellers live in New Zealand?

New Zealand resident travellers are able to purchase Travel Insurance policies from us to any area of travel and any country/destination.

Non-New Zealand resident travellers are only able to purchase a Travel Insurance policy if travelling inbound to New Zealand.

For Non-New Zealand resident travellers wanting to purchase Travel Insurance to travel to any other part of the world other than travel to New Zealand, please contact us as we may still be able to offer cover to you.

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Visitors To New Zealand - Inbound Travel Insurance

Are you visiting New Zealand from overseas? Or do you live in NZ and need to arrange inbound travel insurance for friends or family visiting you?

If that's you, you might be finding it tricky to find cover. Most insurers in New Zealand require you to be a resident to qualify for cover, but there are options out there for you, keep reading for more details... 

What Are Visitors Options?

Visitors to New Zealand can either choose to buy a policy from within their own country, or opt for  Overseas Visitors Cover  which unfortunately only a handful of companies offer.

What Is Overseas Visitors Cover? And What Are The Conditions?

• A visitors policy will typically cover your flight to New Zealand, the time while you are here, but cover will stop when you reach immigration at the airport when you are returning home
• Age restrictions may apply
• All or the majority of your trip must be within New Zealand to qualify for cover
• A waiting period might be applied to medical claims
• Must purchase within a specified time frame of landing here (usually within 14 days)

Where Can You Buy It?

General Advice Warning: The contents of this article were accurate at the time of writing. Insurers change their policies from time to time, so some information may have changed. You should always read the Product Disclosure Statement of your chosen insurer to understand what is covered and what isn't. The information provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account any personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your personal circumstances.

What’s typically included.

• Medical cover within New Zealand:  Medical expenses for injury or illness including hospital stays, surgery, dental, prescription drugs, doctor and dentist office visits. You will not be covered for medical treatment outside of New Zealand  
• Luggage and personal items:  Loss, theft or damage to luggage and personal items  
• Personal liability:  Cover in the event that you are found to be legally liable for accidental injury or damage you may have caused to another person or their property  
• Cancellation fees and lost deposits:  The cost of rearranging or cancelling your journey because of unforeseen circumstances such as illness, accidents and extreme weather conditions   
• Rental vehicle excess:  Cover for the excess payment on your rental vehicle’s insurance if the car you are driving is involved in an accident or is stolen  
• Hospital cash allowance:  A daily allowance if you are hospitalised overseas (allowance will start after a specified period of time spent in hospital)

Like any policy there are exclusions around pre-existing medical conditions and cancellation cover, so make sure you understand your cover by reading the Product Disclosure Statement before you buy.

Are You A Non-Resident Living In New Zealand For A Few Years?

If you're in New Zealand on a working holiday visa, a sponsorship visa, a defacto visa, or even a student visa you should look into  non-permanent resident travel insurance  rather than a visitors policy. Follow the link for more info.

Whether you're here for a quick visit, or an extended break, overseas visitors travel insurance cover is a vital part of every trip. Get cover today to ensure a smooth-sailing, stress free holiday!

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Need cover for friends and relatives visiting NZ?

Travel Insurance Extraordinarie At Your Service

Need some help? Use the search box below to find answers to all those tricky questions. We’ve got heaps of travel insurance tips to help you get the best policy for your upcoming holiday!

Our Travel Insurance Comparision Helps You

Save time, worry and loads of money.

Stay up to date with our latest news, deals and special offers.

Your privacy is important to us.

CoverDirect NZ Limited (INC 3526051) owns and operates this website.

Our comparison is a free service that makes it easy for users to compare multiple quotes, saving both time and money. Our comparison ranks quotes according to price and is limited to those insurers that have agreed to participate on the site. CoverDirect NZ Limited does not hold a financial services licence. The comparison does not take your personal circumstances into account; as such, all information provided should be considered general and should not be considered as advice or a recommendation. Whilst we take all reasonable care when preparing this information, we do not warrant its accuracy. Pricing information is supplied by the insurance providers and ALL policy details should be verified with the before you purchase. This site links users to the website of the insurance provider to verify quotes and access the relevant PDS to understand what is, and is not, covered by a policy prior to purchase. We do not issue insurance. Users purchase directly from the travel insurance provider.

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Travel Insurance

Existing State customers get a 10% discount.*

Use Promo code: STATECUST

*Discount applies to existing State customers and to premiums for the standard policies net of Government levies and GST (if applicable). Discounts do not apply to premiums for cover additional to standard policies or to any minimum premium.

Important information: The  Policy Wording  includes specific information on how State Travel Insurance will respond to claims related to Covid-19.

A range of options for your domestic or overseas travel

Overseas cover & annual multi-trip cover

Your back up when going across the ditch or further afield.

Our cover includes medical and dental expenses* loss or theft of luggage, delayed travel and more. You can also select cover for travel related expenses if you need to change or cancel your trip.

Travel a lot? Take out our annual multi-trip option and you’re covered for as many trips as you like, for 12 months.**

See https://safetravel.govt.nz/ for the latest government advice regarding overseas travel.

Anywhere in NZ

Domestic cancellation.

Covers changes and cancellations outside of your control before you leave and extra expenses due to unforeseen circumstances while you're away. You choose the cover amount.

Domestic Plan

Comprehensive cover that also includes lost luggage, medical and dental expenses, and rental vehicle excess cover.

Inbound Cover Visiting NZ

If you are a non-resident visiting NZ our Inbound policy can cover medical and dental expenses, luggage and travel documents, rental vehicle insurance excess and personal liability.

Travel Cover During Covid-19

Travelling Overseas? Check out our handy scenario-based FAQs explaining how we could cover you if Covid-19 plays havoc with your trip: State Travel Cover and Covid-19 FAQs

Know before you go – our Covid-19 Benefits Destination Guide explains how State Travel cover applies when travelling to different international destinations: Covid-19 Benefits Destination Guide

*Medical cover will not exceed 12 months from onset. Medical and dental expenses cover is limited to $1,500 for treatment provided in New Zealand. This $1,500 sub-limit does not apply to the Inbound Plan.

**For 12 months, over 100km from home, including domestic travel, up to maximum number of days per journey as selected by you.

Get more from your travel insurance

24-hour assistance.

24/7 access to a team of experts with a global network of doctors, nurses, and logistical staff. Cover for emergency accommodation and transport expenses if a disaster like a volcano, tsunami, earthquake, or flood disrupts your journey.

Overseas medical cover

Includes hospital, medical, surgical, emergency dental and ambulance costs. Plus help to arrange treatment and medical evacuation.

Get 10% off when you buy online

*Discount applies to existing State customers and to premiums for standard policies net of Government levies (if applicable) and GST. Discounts do not apply to premiums for cover additional to standard policies or to any minimum premium.

Quick online claims

You can claim  online  while you are travelling.  Find out more

Earn Flybuys™ on every policy you have with State. Don’t forget to  register your Flybuys  number with us, as we’ll also give you chances to get bonus Flybuys throughout the year too. Sweet.

The policy type you choose changes what you are covered for.

Select cover option:

International

Single Trip or Annual Multi-Trip

Limit per adult unless stated otherwise

Up to $1,500 for emergency dental expenses

Up to $1,000 per month

This is only a summary of the benefits provided. Please refer to the Policy Wordings for details of the cover provided.

Limit per adult

Up to $2,500 for personal vehicle insurance excess

Up to $250 per month

Single Trip

Limit per person

(choose the amount of cover that suits, on a per person basis)#

Not included

If you or your travelling companion are diagnosed with Covid-19 by a qualified medical practitioner and are unable to travel, you can claim cancellation or amendment costs for your prepaid trip up to a benefit limit of $10,000 per policy on an International Plan or $5,000 per policy on a Domestic Plan or if applicable, up to the level of cover purchased for cancellation (whichever is lower). There is also no cover if symptoms or diagnosis occurred prior to buying your policy. See the Policy Wording .

*Medical and dental expenses cover will not exceed 12 months from onset of the medical condition. Medical and dental expenses cover is limited to $1,500 for treatment provided in New Zealand. This $1,500 sub-limit does not apply to the Inbound plan.

^ Cover chosen applies per policy. See the Policy Wording .

• Item limits applies for anyone item, set or pair of items including attached or unattached accessories. You may increase these item limits if you wish. See the Policy Wording .

No cover for trip cancellation costs for trips commencing within 21 days of policy purchase date if you test positive to COVID-19 and cannot travel. If your COVID-19 related cancellation claim is approved, then the maximum we will pay per policy is $5,000 for international trips and $2,500 for Domestic trips. See the Policy Wording .

# You can choose $200, $400, $800, or $1,500.

~ The maximum liability collectively for Sections 14, 15, and 16 is $15,000 International Plan, and $10,000 Domestic Plan.

This is only a summary of the benefit provided. Please refer to the Policy Wording . For details of the cover provided. Please read the entire document carefully to understand what the relevant policy covers. Importantly, please note that conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits apply, and this summary of benefits table may change at any time.

Our State Travel Insurance  contains benefits relating to the Covid-19 pandemic. While your Policy Wording  may respond, your claim remains subject to the terms and conditions, limitations and exclusions set out in the Policy Wording . Please ensure you familiarise yourself with these in the Policy Wording before taking out travel cover. For Covid-19 cover to apply, you must not travel to a destination on the "Do not travel" list issued by SafeTravel.govt.nz .

Domestic Policy FAQ's

Why buy state domestic cover.

Our Domestic and Domestic Cancellation plans are for New Zealand residents travelling within New Zealand.

More than one third of domestic travellers experience an unexpected circumstance that can leave them out of pocket.

It doesn’t matter if you are travelling to Auckland or Amsterdam, if your child becomes unwell and you need to cancel your trip, it’s good to know you’re covered.

Specific terms, conditions and exclusions apply to Covid-19. See our State Travel Policy Wording for full details.

Here are some examples of real-life stories

• An airline lost a customer’s suitcase and the items were not recoverable Luggage Value: $2,500
• A customer’s rental vehicle was written off after a third-party collision Rental Vehicle Insurance Excess: $4,000.

Here are some examples of types of claims

Medical claims*

• Sprained limbs or broken arm, leg, wrist due to outdoor activities
• Asthma, seizure, stroke, heart attack
• Swimmer's ear/ear infection.

*Pre-existing medical conditions must be declared, and extra cover purchased under Domestic Plan prior to departure

Your cancellation costs prior to travel

• Prepaid deposits on motorhome rentals, scenic train, or ferry tickets
• Prepaid fares for rail trips, adventure holidays and cruises
• Costs for cancellation due to redundancy, illness, injury, and medical operations.

Cancellation prior to departure will result in the loss of deposits paid and in other instances full cancellation fees often apply.

Delayed travel

• Travel delays due to weather e.g. snowstorms and fog delaying connecting flights.

Luggage claims

• Broken cameras, smartphones and electronic items
• Lost spectacles, hearing aids and damaged dentures.

What Domestic options are available?

We offer 3 Domestic plan options to choose from and these can be purchased quickly and easily on our website.

Domestic plan (Single Trip Policy or Annual Multi-Trip Policy)

Our Domestic plan (Single Trip Policy and Annual Multi-Trip Policy) is our most comprehensive domestic plan.

The Domestic plan Annual Multi-Trip Policy is sometimes a more suitable option for those travellers who are planning to travel more than twice this year and for no longer than 30 days at a time within New Zealand.

Domestic Cancellation plan Single Trip Policy

Our Domestic Cancellation plan covers domestic travellers for cancellation cover only and you choose the cancellation cover limit to best meet your needs when you purchase your policy.

What activities are covered?

There are plenty of fun activities to do around New Zealand year-round, and we have a comprehensive list of activities which are covered under our Domestic plans (excludes Domestic Cancellation Plan).

Our plans automatically include:

• Bungy Jumping
• Horse Riding
• Jet Boating
• Paragliding
• Parasailing
• Snorkelling
• White Water Rafting

Other activities may be covered as an add-on to your Domestic plan (excludes Domestic Cancellation plan). See our State Travel Policy for full details.

What cover is available for Skiing and Snowboarding?

Because being on the snow and participating in winter sports activities often increases the risk of injuries or incidents, you'll need to ensure you amend your Domestic plan (excludes Domestic Cancellation plan) to include snow activities like skiing and snowboarding by purchasing a winter cover (snow sports) upgrade. This can help protect you against unforeseen costs should you have a mishap on the slopes and need medical assistance. Sporting and ski equipment are not covered whilst in use and if you are a New Zealand citizen, ACC may cover some costs due to injury caused by an accident.

You will only be covered if you have purchased the Domestic Plan with the winter cover (snow sports) upgrade and:

• You are skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling on-piste, or cross-country skiing;
• You are not participating in a Professional capacity; and
• You are not racing.

Note: sporting and ski equipment are not covered whilst in use.

What if I travel frequently in NZ, do you have a multi-trip option?

Multi-trip travel insurance may save you time and money. If you are planning to travel more than twice this year and for no longer than 30 days at a time within New Zealand, consider our Domestic Plan Annual Multi-Trip Policy.

Can you explain the rental vehicle insurance excess?

This benefit applies to our Domestic Plan (excludes Domestic Cancellation Plan) and covers the rental vehicle excess if your rental vehicle is stolen, or damaged while you are driving. You will still need to take out rental vehicle insurance.

A $4,000 rental vehicle excess cover can save you money if you need to make a claim.

Note: that your rental agreement may still require you to take out rental vehicle insurance.

If you are driving your personal vehicle on your domestic holiday there is bonus cover of $2,500 for your comprehensive vehicle insurance excess.

What does the medical cover provide for?

Our Domestic Plan D *(excludes Domestic Cancellation Plan) can provide you with cover for unexpected medical and dental expenses up to $1,500. This is for treatment provided in New Zealand.

It only applies up to 12 months from when you suffered a disabling injury, sickness, or disease. Travel insurance protects you from unforeseen events. Routine medical or dental treatments, prenatal visits and continuation of treatments are not covered.

What existing medical conditions are covered?

We automatically cover a range of existing medical conditions (EMC) under the Domestic plan (excludes Domestic Cancellation Plan). Automatically covered conditions include - asthma, epilepsy, gastric reflux and more! Read the State Travel Policy Wording for a full list of the conditions we automatically cover. If your existing medical conditions are not all automatically covered, you may complete an online medical assessment to determine if cover is available. Other travel insurance benefits unrelated to your EMC still apply, even if cover cannot be provided for your specific condition/s.

*Medical cover will not exceed 12 months from onset. Medical and dental expenses cover is limited to $1,500 for treatment provided in New Zealand. This $1,500 sub-limit does not apply to International or Inbound Plans.

Before you travel

Travel safety.

Find out more information about events that may affect you when you travel.

Travel tips

Our team of intrepid Kiwi travellers have come up with a list of handy travel tips to help make your holiday even better.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions, and exclusions apply. Standard excess may apply. State Travel insurance is administered by Cover-More NZ Ltd, underwritten and issued by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL) incorporated in Australia, ABN 13 000 296 640, trading as Zurich New Zealand. For further information see Zurich New Zealand’s financial strength rating . Any advice is general advice only. Consider the State Travel Policy Brochure and wording therein before deciding to buy this product. IAG receives a commission for the issue of State branded travel policies arranged through Cover-More (NZ) Limited ("Cover-More"). IAG New Zealand Limited ("IAG"), of which State is a business division, is not the insurer. IAG does not guarantee Zurich New Zealand or Cover-More.

Travel Insurance You Can Trust

What country are you going to?

Select the Area of travel in which you will spend most time. NOTE: If you are spending more than 20% of your trip time in the Americas Area, it is compulsory to select a destination in the Americas Area for your policy.

If you are quoting a multi-trip policy please select “see region list” and select a destination in the appropriate region. For example United States for Worldwide cover or Spain for European cover.

When are you going?

Please select the departure and return dates for your trip.

For multi-trip policies the departure date will mark the start of your cover and it will automatically run for a year from that date.

Who is travelling?

Simply enter the age of each traveller including Adults and Accompanied Children*. Enter the age they are now.

Only use as many boxes as you have travellers.

*As per the Policy Wording: "Accompanied Children" means Your children or grandchildren plus one non-related child per adult policyholder who are identified on the Certificate of Insurance and travelling with You on the Journey, provided they are not in full-time employment and they are under the age of 21 years at the Relevant Time. If an Accompanied Child is in full time employment then they will need to purchase their own policy.

If you require a policy for more than 6 travellers, please contact Cover-More on (0800) 500 225 as we may still be able to offer cover to you.

About travel health insurance

Travel Health Insurance Cover

Travel medical insurance cover can be the most important thing you pack.

Imagine you are far from home, and you fall ill or become injured. You visit the nearest hospital only to find they won’t accept your New Zealand health insurance and won’t provide you with treatment unless you can provide payment. With travel health insurance —also called medical travel insurance —you’d have coverage for emergency medical and dental treatment.

If you purchase travel medical insurance cover from us, you not only have affordable, high-quality financial cover, you also have access to a global network of health care professionals who will manage your case from start to finish, and assist you in finding the highest quality of care.

Whether you require a few stitches and a bandage, emergency surgery, or a medical evacuation back home, we will be there to help.

Benefits of our medical travel insurance cover

Our travel insurance with medical cover includes:

• Hospitalisation and evacuation
• $Unlimited~ overseas medical expenses
• Access to 24/7 Emergency Assistance
• Dental cover

At Cover-More, all our plans come with access to 24/7 Emergency Assistance so you can rely on our doctors and nurses to support and help you whenever you need them. Our Options Plan also has limited COVID-19 benefits. Learn more information on our COVID-19 benefits page.

If you have an existing medical condition , we can offer you a prompt assessment service to determine if your condition will be covered. We also offer automatic cover for a variety of existing medical conditions with our policies, including asthma, coeliac disease, migraines, and more. Read the Policy Wording for full details and conditions. If one of your existing medical conditions is not automatically covered, we may still be able to cover you. Please note that you will need to complete our online assessment form when you get your quote and declare all your existing medical conditions, regardless of whether they are automatically covered or not. Call our team on 0800 500 225 for more information.

Our customers will tell you the value of our travel health insurance. Compare our plans to see what benefits are available.

Be sure to read the Policy Wording before deciding and get a quote online today.

~Cover will not exceed 12 months from onset of the illness, condition or injury.

Please wait, generating your policy.

• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Make a Claim
• COVID-19 FAQs

Travel Insurance

Travel a little freer knowing we're on the journey with you

AA Travel Insurance

Travel is part of the Kiwi DNA, but even the best laid travel plans can go unexpectedly wrong. That’s why we offer AA Travel Insurance plans - so you can travel a little freer here in NZ or overseas, knowing help is only a phone call away.

With AA Travel Insurance, your trip can be protected from unforeseen cancellation and loss of deposits before you even depart. So if something happens in the lead-up to your trip, we can be there to help you.

To understand what cover AA Travel Insurance provides for epidemic and pandemic diseases, like COVID-19, check out our FAQs . 

Get a quote

Why choose AA Travel Insurance

Get a quote online in minutes, so you can get back to planning your adventure. All you need are your travel dates, destination and any companions.

We’ve made the process simple, with domestic and international plans to choose from.

With AA Travel Insurance being one of NZ’s trusted travel insurance brands, we are proud to take care of Kiwis’ insurance needs.

We’re backed by the Allianz Worldwide Emergency Assistance programme, ready to help you no matter where you are in the world.

Playing at home or away?

Whether you're hitting the ski slopes or ticking a Great Walk off your list, make sure your trip is covered from unexpected costs like cancellation, travel disruption, and rental vehicle excess.

International

With three plans to choose from, our International Insurance cover is designed to make sure you can still enjoy your holiday even if something goes south.

AA Travel Insurance Benefits:

• AA Member discount

AA Members can get a 10% discount* on new AA Travel Insurance policies. Simply provide your AA Membership number when you apply.

• Cover for missed connections or travel delay

If you miss connections or have any travel delays because of an unexpected situation, you’ll be able to claim up to the benefit limit of your chosen policy. That means cover for extra costs to make alternative travel arrangements or additional delay costs.

• Free cover for dependent children

Dependent children travelling with someone covered under a policy can be covered at no additional charge (for Domestic Cover – that's up to 18 years, and for International Cover – up to 21 years).

• Cover for some COVID-related situations^

Both domestic and international options include selected cover for epidemic and pandemic diseases, like COVID-19. So if you’re diagnosed on your trip and need medical assistance or need to change your plans, you’ll be covered.

• Cover before you depart

Your trip is protected from unforeseen cancellation and loss of deposits the moment your cover is confirmed.

• Cover for recreational activities

Some recreational sports are automatically covered under our policies, including leisure skiing and snowboarding, hot air ballooning, parasailing and paragliding, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting in grade 4 rivers (or less).

For all of these benefits, please make sure you read the Policy Wording to understand the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions that may apply.

^The policy still has a general exclusion for epidemics and pandemics, and does not cover disinclination to travel due to fear or change of mind. Cover is only provided if you have not commenced your journey against the New Zealand Government’s advice not to travel. There is no cover for lockdowns, changes in government alert levels, quarantine or mandatory isolation applying to a population or part of a population. Please refer to the Policy Wording for full details.

^Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply and these are stated in the Policy Wording . Customers considering the purchase of a travel insurance policy should read the Policy Wording to check what is and isn’t covered.

Have a question?

Our friendly New Zealand-based team are here to help. Give them a call anytime from 8:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday, or pop into one of our AA Centres to speak to a consultant.

Call: 0800 630 115

Frequently asked questions

What countries does my selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases (including Covid-19) cover?

All countries that do not appear on the Level 4 warning “Do not travel” advisory listed on SafeTravel.

SafeTravel houses all warnings inclusive of non-Covid-19 advisories which are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

If I contract Covid-19 prior to travelling do I have selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases?

Cover is in place, providing that the country you are travelling to does not have a MFAT, SafeTravel or New Zealand Government Level 4 warning “Do not travel” in place.

If I contract Covid-19 in transit to my destination country do I have selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases?

Cover is in place, providing that the countries you are travelling to do not have a MFAT, SafeTravel or New Zealand Government Level 4 warning “Do not travel” in place.

Does selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases still apply if I am unvaccinated?

Cover is in place as there is no requirement to be vaccinated/boosted under our policy. However, if the destination country requires an inbound traveller to be vaccinated, then the traveller must be able to meet these entry requirements. This also applies to the condition of carriage for example of the airline they are travelling. There is no cover if denied boarding or entry to a country due to not meeting the carrier or country vaccination requirements.

Are there any mandatory epidemic and pandemic insurance requirements to enter certain countries?

Many countries, even before the pandemic, had compulsory health and travel insurance requirements, but many more have since added rules – typically around Covid-19 medical expenses and the associated costs. The coverage type and amount varies by vaccination status and country.  Prior to travelling, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination.

If I had Covid-19, should I declare this as a Pre-existing Medical Condition?

At the time of purchasing your policy if you have previously had Covid-19 and are now testing negative, are feeling well with no symptoms at all, then you do not need to declare this as a Pre-existing Medical Condition. A Covid-19 positive test result at a later date would be considered a new infection.

However, if you are:

• still testing positive; or
• still displaying Covid-19 signs and symptoms; or
• have been diagnosed with 'long Covid';

and you wish to have cover, you need to disclose the condition as a Pre-existing Medical Condition and an additional premium may be payable.

Our insurance partner

AA Travel Insurance policies are brought to you by the New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated (AA), are issued and managed by AWP Services New Zealand Limited trading as Allianz Partners and underwritten by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473 (Incorporated in Australia) ("Hollard"). You should consider the  Policy Wording  before making any decisions about this insurance policy. Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply. 

Financial Strength Rating

The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473 (Incorporated in Australia), ("Hollard"), has been given a financial strength rating of A (Strong) issued by Standard and Poor's. View the full details on the  Financial Strength Rating .

An overseas policyholder preference applies. Under Australian law, if The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd is wound up, its assets in Australia must be applied to its Australian liabilities before they can be applied to overseas liabilities. To this extent, New Zealand policyholders may not be able to rely on The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd’s Australian assets to satisfy New Zealand liabilities.

Financial advice

The New Zealand Automobile Association provides general information about AA Travel Insurance products and services so that you can make a choice that best meets your needs. Information provided does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or goals and is not intended to be financial advice. If you'd like to receive financial advice, you can get professional advice from a registered financial adviser.

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A Traveller’s Guide to Healthcare in New Zealand

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, healthcare in new zealand for visitors and non-residents: a guide to seeing a doctor in new zealand.

Getting sick while travelling is never fun. Fortunately, healthcare in New Zealand is readily available for overseas visitors. Plus, you have multiple options, from free consultations with pharmacists to emergency care in hospitals. Even non-residents can go to a medical centre in New Zealand and seek medical advice from a doctor, otherwise known as a GP. We’ll guide you through the healthcare system and what you need to know about seeing a doctor in New Zealand.

While you’re here, you might also be interested in our Health Tips for Travelling in New Zealand .

5 Quick Tips for Seeing a Doctor in New Zealand

• In an emergency, call 111
• Doctor consultations and prescriptions are very affordable . Even if you don’t have medical insurance, still see a doctor if you need to!
• It’s best to book an appointment at a medical centre as soon as possible, as GPs are rarely immediately available. Alternatively, talk to a GP through a telehealth service (more of that below)
• Consider seeing a pharmacist or calling Healthline first to get medical advice quickly and see whether it is appropriate to see a doctor
• Travellers to New Zealand can bring prescribed medication for up to three months through customs, as long as they can show that the medication is prescribed to them. Find out more in What Do You Need to Declare When Arriving in New Zealand?

What is a GP?

Doctors in New Zealand are more commonly known as GPs (General Practioner).

A GP is a qualified doctor who can write prescriptions for medication for you and refer you for further tests or specialist treatment if needed.

GPs are who you should seek medical advice from if your case is not an emergency.

Where to Find a GP in New Zealand

GPs operate out of New Zealand medical centres, as well as online clinics (telehealth services). Medical centres can be found in almost every city, town and suburb. We recommend booking an appointment with a GP through a medical centre in advance, as many medical centres in New Zealand are usually booked up at least a couple of days in advance.

Book a GP Consultation with CareHQ

Working in partnership with New Zealand GP practices to help lighten their load, as well as providing a convenient option for patients when there isn’t an in-person clinic nearby or it’s after hours, CareHQ is the easy way for travellers to see a doctor while in New Zealand.

CareHQ is a New Zealand online clinic that offers remote GP consultations through its phone app or website. All consultations are with New Zealand-registered GPs who are all highly trained in giving consultations remotely. They are available to international visitors from 7 am to 7 pm, 7 days a week.

Check out our complete guide to how CareHQ works in   The Easy Way to See a Doctor for Tourists Travelling in New Zealand or head straight to carehq.co.nz to learn more.

How to Pay for a GP Consultation

Both New Zealand residents and overseas visitors need to pay for seeing a GP in New Zealand.

The price for a GP consultation, if you are a non-resident, is usually around NZ$80. This will be paid via the medical centre’s receptionist immediately after your GP consultation.

For more details on paying for your GP consultation, take a look at  How to Pay for Healthcare Services in New Zealand .

Prescription Costs in New Zealand

A GP might prescribe you medication, which is available to pick up from a pharmacy. Much of the medication in New Zealand is subsidised by the government. GPs will almost always prescribe subsidised medication so you get access to the most affordable medication possible. Subsidised medication usually costs NZ$5-$15 each.

For more information on medical prescriptions, see How to Get a Medical Prescription in New Zealand .

Is Seeing a GP the Right Choice?

Doctors, or GPs, are the right choice if you need medical advice in non-emergency situations. However, it’s also worth considering New Zealand’s other healthcare services.

If you are unsure of what type of healthcare service you should use, it’s worth calling Healthline . This is a free telephone health advice service where you will talk to a registered nurse. They will advise on whether to see a doctor, where to find the nearest doctor or whether to see a pharmacist.

The Healthline is available 24/7. Call: 0800 611 116 . By the way, for other useful phone numbers to know in NZ, check out Important Contacts & Telephone Numbers for Travelling New Zealand .

Pharmacists in New Zealand offer free consultations, both in-person at a pharmacy (otherwise known as a chemist) and over the phone by calling the pharmacy phone number. Pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses and injuries but cannot prescribe stronger medication than what is available over the counter. We go over how pharmacies work in  How to Get a Medical Prescription in New Zealand .

There are around 40 public hospitals in New Zealand, usually found in cities and large towns. Hospitals are the best place to go for urgent and emergency healthcare. Note that hospitals usually have long waiting times – often a couple of hours to half a day. If your case is more urgent, then you will be put on an urgent waiting list and be seen sooner.

How to Pay for Healthcare in New Zealand as a Non-Resident

While no one can be refused emergency healthcare if they are unable to pay, you will still be expected to pay for some services as a non-New Zealand resident. While we have an in-depth guide on  How to Pay for Healthcare Services in New Zealand , here’s a quick runddown.

ACC: New Zealand’s Universal Accident Cover

Part of the costs for injuries caused by an accident will be covered under the New Zealand universal insurance, ACC , and Employee Accident Cover if you are employed in New Zealand – find out more in What is ACC and Employee Accident Cover?

Travel Insurance

A portion of the hospital care will need to be paid by you or your travel medical insurance. See  How to Choose the BEST Travel Insurance for New Zealand  for advice on getting medical insurance for travelling in New Zealand.

Payment Methods

In terms of the right payment methods to use to pay for your healthcare, check out  The Best Way to Pay in New Zealand .

More About Healthcare in New Zealand for Travellers

That’s it for your guide to the New Zealand healthcare system and how to use it as a visitor or non-resident. For more health tips, be sure to check these out:

• How to Choose Travel Insurance for New Zealand
• 14 Questions to Ask Before Buying Medical Travel Insurance
• Health Tips For Travelling in New Zealand

Finally, for any other handy bits of advice for a trip to NZ, take a look at the  31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Travel Insurance for a New Zealand Vacation (2024)

Planning a getaway to New Zealand? Click below to see how much it would cost to protect your trip with travel insurance.

in under 2 mintes

Jessica Bergin is a Barcelona-based Australian writer who has worked in the travel industry for half a decade. Her passion for adventure, travel, culture and lifestyle has helped her navigate a successful career in the writing industry, including for World Words.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Whether you plan to ski the slopes in Queenstown or sample the wineries in Wellington, travel insurance for New Zealand can offer financial protection and peace of mind. From medical emergencies to flight delays, unforeseen circumstances can occur while traveling. If things don’t go to plan, travel insurance can help recoup your losses by reimbursing nonrefundable trip costs.

We at the MarketWatch Guides Team have analyzed the best travel insurance companies to help you review travel insurance advantages, costs and coverage options for a New Zealand vacation.

Compare The Best NZ Travel Insurance Companies

Use the table below to compare the costs and coverages of our top recommended travel insurance companies that will cover a trip to New Zealand:

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Do I Need Travel Insurance for New Zealand?

New Zealand does not require visitors to have travel insurance to enter the country. But it is recommended if your health insurance does not extend to emergency treatment abroad.

Framed by forested mountains, volcanoes, glaciers and beaches, New Zealand is known for its natural wonder. But considering the country’s vast landscape and unpredictable weather, it can take hours to reach remote places in an emergency. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking or snowboarding, travel insurance can reimburse the cost of medical care in case of injury.

New Zealand extends some health care coverage to temporary visitors with its Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) Program . However, the program may not cover all medical costs. Purchasing travel insurance can further protect you from financial burdens by offering additional medical coverage.

The weather in New Zealand is notoriously volatile , with extremes at each end of the year. Due to its geographical position, New Zealand is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Such events could cause trip cancellations or travel delays. Travel insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses (like your flight or hotel) if you experience an interruption due to severe weather.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage allows you flexibility to cancel your trip for reasons outside those predetermined by your travel insurance policy. However, since CFAR coverage is considered a policy add-on, it is more expensive than a standard policy.

This type of coverage is also subject to disclaimers, deductibles and restrictions. You must meet certain requirements to qualify for CFAR insurance, including:

• You have to cancel your trip within a certain timeframe, like at least 48 hours before your departure date.
• You only have a specific number of days after booking your trip to buy CFAR coverage. Most insurance providers have a limit of 10 to 21 days after booking.

Gear Theft Protection

You may want to bring cameras, sporting gear or other valuables if you’re planning to explore New Zealand’s diverse destinations. Whether you want to photograph the rich Maori culture or mountain bike through the forest, gear theft protection can help recoup the cost of lost or stolen goods.

Each travel insurance policy will include specific coverage limits and exclusions regarding stolen or damaged gear. Gear theft protection is worth considering if you wish to bring the following on your trip:

• A laptop, tablet or smartphone
• Professional camera and equipment
• Sporting equipment (like a surfboard or kayak)

Note that your insurance may not cover the full value of your items, so review the policy wording and product disclosure statement carefully to determine your coverage. If the total of the items you plan to bring exceeds your benefit limit, consider leaving some items at home.

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Although the ACC offers some medical coverage to non-residents, the program does not always cover the full cost of treatment. If your health insurance does not extend coverage in other countries, you can safeguard yourself with travel insurance for medical emergencies .

Travel medical insurance covers emergency medical expenses in the event of an injury or illness. Most providers also cover evacuation to your home country if you can’t receive health care locally and repatriation if you die while traveling.

A standard travel insurance policy may include the following medical emergency and assistance coverage:

• Hospital admission costs
• Surgical operations and related fees
• Ambulance costs
• X-rays and lab tests
• Emergency dental fees

When booking your trip insurance, be sure to declare any pre-existing medical conditions like asthma or high blood pressure. While some providers do not extend coverage for pre-existing conditions, others may offer a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver.

Travel medical insurance also may not extend to injuries sustained as a result of extreme sports, but some providers may offer add-on coverage. Read your policy’s full details for restrictions and exclusions.

Rental Car Protection

New Zealand boasts an extensive network of public transport, making it easy to travel around big cities like Auckland and Wellington. But you may prefer to rent a car to explore on your own schedule.

As a tourist, you can legally drive for up to 12 months in New Zealand as long as you have a current driver’s license. If your license isn’t in English, you’ll need to obtain an English translation. Otherwise, you can opt for an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) issued or written in English.

New Zealand requires rental car companies to include basic insurance for coverage against accidents. The level of protection varies by provider, but usually covers the following:

• Collision damage waiver
• Windshield protection
• Roadside protection
• Theft protection

The insurance will include an excess or deductible or the amount of money you pay before the insurance policy covers the costs. Your rental car provider may offer a daily fee in exchange for reducing or eliminating the excess.

For example, let’s say that your rental car agreement offers a standard policy with a $1,000 excess. If your rental vehicle is damaged and costs $3,000 to repair, you’ll only need to pay the $1,000. As long as you’ve met the terms and conditions in your contract, the rental company will cover the remaining $2,000.

While you can purchase travel insurance with rental car protection, it may not be necessary for a trip to New Zealand. Consider existing rental car coverage before adding more with a travel insurance policy.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Whether it’s extreme weather or natural disasters, unexpected circumstances can impact your trip to New Zealand. Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable costs like your flight, hotel or travel excursions if you have to cancel your trip due to the following reasons:

• Death of a traveling companion or family member
• Diagnosis of a serious medical condition or injury
• Natural disasters or dangerous weather conditions
• Domestic or international terrorism
• Legal obligations like jury or military duty

How Much Does New Zealand Travel Insurance Cost?

The cost of travel insurance can vary depending on your coverage preferences, personal details and travel logistics. Some providers offer single-trip plans for a one-time visit or annual multi-trip coverage if you travel more often.

Cheap travel insurance options are available if you are on a budget. To receive a quote from a provider, you’ll be required to submit the following information:

• Destination country
• Your country of residence
• Age and the number of travelers
• Trip duration
• Total trip price

We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to New Zealand. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to New Zealand for ten days in September 2024, with a total trip cost of $4,000. Policies include coverage for cancellations, interruptions, delays, medical care and evacuation.

These quotes were collected in April 2024 for a trip in September 2024.

Each of the above insurance plans includes the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption (including travel delays)
• Medical evacuation
• Emergency medical care
• COVID-19 -related medical care and trip cancellation

How Do I Get Travel Insurance for New Zealand?

Before you buy travel insurance for your New Zealand trip, check to see if your current health insurance plan or credit card offers some level of coverage. If you have private health insurance, it may include coverage for international travel and medical emergencies. Or you might have flight, rental car or other form of travel insurance through your credit card.

We recommend requesting a free quote from at least three travel insurance companies. Be sure to compare various trip insurance options and consider factors like COVID-19 coverage, emergency assistance and trip cancellation. Make sure your chosen travel insurance covers what you need. Carefully review policy wording for exclusions and consider add-ons to cover additional expenses.

New Zealand Safety Tips

According to the Global Peace Index , New Zealand is ranked as the second-safest country in the world. But crime can still happen while traveling. We’ve included the below information and travel tips to help you safely navigate New Zealand.

Crime and Safety

New Zealand is considered a safe destination for travelers, but it is not crime-free. Be careful not to leave valuables in campervans or parked cars near trailheads or tourist spots. When in the big cities, avoid walking alone late at night or in unlit alleyways.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

With fjords, dormant volcanoes and hidden beaches, New Zealand boasts a diversity of day trips. But don’t overestimate your ability or underestimate the risks of exploring the great outdoors. Plan your adventures ahead of time, use a local guide or tourist service if necessary, and be sure to research the destination and weather.

Some tourists may also plan to visit both New Zealand and Australia on the same trip. If you purchase travel insurance, check to make sure your policy covers travel to multiple destinations.

As of January 2023, New Zealand has lifted all pandemic-related restrictions . International travelers are not required to provide a vaccination passport or negative PCR test to enter the country. You are not required to wear a mask on public transport but may still encounter mask advisories in medical facilities or other buildings.

You will be required to self-isolate for seven days if you contract the coronavirus while in New Zealand.

Is Travel Insurance for a New Zealand Vacation Worth It?

It’s ultimately up to you to decide if travel insurance is worth it for your New Zealand vacation. Standard travel insurance can offer coverage for unexpected trip cancellations, lost baggage , flight postponements and other travel inconveniences. Although New Zealand offers some medical coverage for foreigners, the country will not always cover the full cost of your care. Travel insurance can extend emergency medical coverage if you are hurt or get sick while abroad.

If you opt for a more comprehensive travel insurance plan, you can consider add-on options like CFAR coverage, rental car damage or sporting gear protection for added peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for New Zealand

How can i claim flight compensation for a trip to new zealand.

Travel insurance offers protection against financial loss if your flight is canceled or delayed. Otherwise, flight compensation is subject to the conditions of each airline and reimbursement is not guaranteed.

Do I need travel insurance for New Zealand?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens entering New Zealand, but it is highly recommended if your health insurance does not extend abroad. Travel insurance can also protect you from financial loss if your trip is unexpectedly canceled, you experience travel delays or are traveling with expensive gear.

What is the best travel insurance for a New Zealand vacation?

The best travel insurance plan depends on your preferences, coverage needs and budget. To determine the best policy for you, compare at least three options. Pay attention to the coverage limits, policy exclusions and overall cost. Make sure you select a policy with enough coverage to offset potential financial losses.

What documents do I need to travel to New Zealand?

U.S. citizens must provide a valid passport and travel document to visit New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for at least three months prior to your planned departure date. Tourists from the U.S. must also have a travel visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) to enter New Zealand.

If you have questions about this page, please reach out to our editors at [email protected] .

More Travel Insurance Resources

Top Travel Insurances for New Zealand You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and the Southern Alps, as well as its unique Maori history. Visitors also come to experience the adventure activities, such as hiking, skiing, and rafting, and to see the unique wildlife like the Kiwi bird. Although travelling to New Zealand can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, out-the-pocket healthcare costs in the country tend to be expensive, so it's a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to New Zealand and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

New Zealand Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for New Zealand:

Best Travel Insurances for New Zealand

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for New Zealand? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to New Zealand scroll down

Heading to New Zealand soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for New Zealand?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through New Zealand.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to New Zealand or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for New Zealand:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to New Zealand. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to New Zealand, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for New Zealand:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to New Zealand? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to New Zealand

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for New Zealand. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in New Zealand can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

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Medical tourism

Page reviewed:21/1/20 Print page

It is important to consider your physical and mental health before travelling overseas, and this includes for the purpose of medical tourism. Many New Zealanders are tempted by the perceived prospect of cheaper and more immediate access to medical treatment overseas.

New Zealanders are strongly advised to discuss any plans they have to travel overseas for a medical procedure with their local health practitioner well in advance of their trip, to ensure they are aware of potential risks and implications, particularly if things go wrong. Your travel insurer should also be informed of your intentions.   Before seeking medical, cosmetic or dental treatment overseas, we strongly encourage all New Zealanders to thoroughly research the standards and qualifications of their prospective health provider and consider the following factors:

• Communication – receiving treatment in a facility where you do not speak the language fluently may increase the risk of misunderstandings about your care.
• Complications – countries vary in their capacity for the type of intensive medical care that may be required if there are serious complications from a medical procedure. In some cases evacuation back to New Zealand for care may be required. This is very expensive and medical tourism is often not covered by travel insurance policies.
• Hygiene standards vary; diseases such as hepatitis B and HIV can be transmitted though unsterile medical equipment. 
• Medication may be of poor quality or even counterfeit in some countries. 
• Resistance to antibiotics is a global problem, and resistant bacteria may be more common in some countries than others. 
• Blood products may not be screened for blood-borne infections. 
• Flying after surgery may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot).

If you have an existing physical or mental health condition, we recommend you and your family carefully consider the extra stress and expense that may be caused by language difficulties or receiving medical care in a different cultural and economic environment. You are financially responsible for medical costs incurred overseas.

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Reviewed:21 Jan 2020, 11:52

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The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Apr 26, 2024, 11:14am

Table of Contents

Do australians need travel insurance for vietnam, what does travel insurance for vietnam cover, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination for Australians, with the country even hoping to encourage more Aussies to visit by potentially waiving visa requirements in due time.

The Southeast Asian country is set to be high on the list for Aussies going overseas in 2024. The number of Australian tourists in Vietnam now exceeds pre-pandemic levels: more than 317,000 Australians visited Vietnam in 2019 , while there were 390,000 Aussie visitors in 2023.

Plus, as more and more flights become available, such as low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launching a direct service between Hanoi and Melbourne earlier this year, getting to Vietnam is becoming easier for Australians.

If the direct flights, fascinating history, vast scenery and delicious food aren’t enough to convince Australian travellers, the cost may be. Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world for Australian tourists due to our strong conversion rate against the Vietnamese Dong and the nation’s low cost of living in comparison to our own.

And while cheap thrills may be what you’re after on your vacation, it’s important not to skimp on the necessities that may cost that little bit extra—such as travel insurance. This guide outlines what you need to know regarding travel insurance in Vietnam.

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Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Investing in travel insurance is a good idea for any overseas trip. Travel insurance policies can help protect you from having to dive deep into your pockets, with many offering unlimited medical treatment while abroad and cancellation cover for your trip should the unexpected occur.

Travel insurance is not just handy for medical purposes or travel changes, either. Your personal items can be covered, should any baggage go missing or an important item be stolen—which, unfortunately, often occurs in Vietnam.

Smarttraveller warns Australians to be alert at all times in Vietnam, considering petty theft–including bag slashing–is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common, the website states.

Like most international travel insurance policies, you will be able to find basic coverage for your trip to Vietnam, or choose to opt for a more comprehensive, albeit more expensive, policy.

While a basic policy will often cover medical expenses and lost luggage,a comprehensive policy includes a lot more. Most basic policies also likely won’t offer compensation for travel delays, stolen cash, accidental death and more.

Additionally, if you are going on a trip to multiple countries within the year, it may be worth opting for an ‘annual multi trip’ insurance instead—making sure that there are no exclusions to the regions you are wishing to visit.

Visa Requirements For Australians Travelling to Vietnam

You’ll still be allowed to travel to Vietnam if you don’t invest in travel insurance, but you do so at your own risk—and, as stated, it is highly advised to have a travel insurance policy for any overseas trip.

However, what you cannot do is enter Vietnam as an Australian tourist without a tourist visa. While Vietnam will grant Australian citizens visas on arrival, applying for one online is much easier.

A tourist visa costs under $100 AUD; however the exact price depends on your length of stay.

The Vietnamese government may consider waiving visas for Australian citizens, especially since many other SEA countries have done so such as Indonesia and Thailand .

However, at the time of writing, Forbes Advisor Australia has confirmed that Australian citizens must still obtain a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The exact inclusions of your travel insurance will be dependent on your personal policy and the provider.

However, generally speaking, you can expect a travel insurance policy for Vietnam to offer some level of cover for:

• Medical expenses;
• Lost, damaged or stolen luggage;
• Travel cancellations or delays ;
• Personal liability;
• Credit card fraud;
• Covid-19 expenses;

If you are partaking in certain sports and activities, you will need to make sure that you choose a policy that covers them. You’ll also need to make sure that your policy covers any pre-existing medical conditions as well.

Plus, if you are travelling with valuables, you may wish to opt for a policy that lets you increase the protection cover on your items.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, what you will be taking with you, and your physical health to establish what policies would be appropriate for you.

From there, you can compare quotes of different policies and providers to ensure you have the optimal—yet affordable—cover for your trip to Vietnam.

Does Travel Insurance Cover The Ha-Giang Loop?

Considered one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, the Ha-Giang Loop is a popular tourist activity in Vietnam for adventurous travellers. If the Ha-Giang Loop is one of your goals, you’ll need to make sure you have travel insurance that covers motorcycling.

Occasionally a policy may include this as one of their included ‘sports and activities’, but it is more often the case that you will need to purchase an additional ‘adventure pack’ that is either specific to, or includes, motorsports.

Even so, when purchasing an additional pack to cover motorbikes, you need to be cautious of the conditions. For example, some policies will only cover motorcycle riding if the bike you are riding has an engine under a certain size.

Often, coverage will cease and claims won’t be accepted if you haven’t been wearing the correct safety equipment such as boots and a helmet, or have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

What Does Travel Insurance Exclude?

Your travel insurance policy may exclude some activities that you wish to partake in, unless you can opt-in to purchase an additional adventure pack as explained above in regards to motorbike riding.

Just like with the inclusions of a policy, the exclusions depend on what type of policy you choose, and what provider you go with.

Commonly, however, you won’t be covered for instances where you:

• Break the law;
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Partake in an excluded activity;
• Receive medical treatment for a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed;
• Travel to a ‘Do Not Travel’ destination as outlined by Smarttraveller.

As always, it is essential to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you will and won’t be covered for while overseas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, as of April 2024, Australian tourists still need a visa to travel to Vietnam. This visa can be obtained on arrival, or purchased online prior to travel. The visa takes approximately three days to process online, and the cost depends on how long you intend to stay in the country.

Does international travel insurance cover Covid-19?

Many comprehensive travel insurance policies now cover Covid-19, including medical conditions related to Covid-19 or trip cancellations due to a Covid-19 diagnosis. However, it is not guaranteed that all policies will. It’s important to check your policy’s PDS carefully to understand what it will and will not cover in regards to Covid-19 for both you and your travelling companions.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

How much does travel insurance cost for Vietnam?

The cost of your travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam will depend on your age, your health, the activities you wish to partake in, and the length of your stay.

For example, for a 34 year old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling to Vietnam for two weeks, a policy from some of our top choices for comprehensive travel insurance would cost around $130 (based on quotes from Cover-More , 1Cover , and Fast Cover ).

The prices of these quotes would change depending on a chosen excess, cancellation cover, and any additional coverage options you may choose to purchase such as adventure packs or cruise cover.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

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Visiting New Zealand

Eligibility criteria.

So, you’re looking to apply for our Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy for yourself or for a family member coming to visit. It’s important to understand whether you qualify for the Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy or not.

You can find the eligibility criteria for this policy below.

To be eligible for this policy, you must:

a. hold a current New Zealand work visa or visitor visa; b. be exempt from the requirements to hold a visa to New Zealand; or c. be exempt from the requirements to hold a visa to visit New Zealand but must instead hold a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

You are not eligible for this policy if you:

d. are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand; or e. are travelling to New Zealand with the intention of obtaining medical or dental treatment, cosmetic surgery, or related advice; or f. have been advised by a registered medical practitioner that you are not fit to travel. 

What you need to know

This page provides a summary of the key terms only. As with all insurance policies, terms and conditions apply. For our terms and conditions (including information about exclusions, excesses and sub limits) we recommend you read the travel insurance Policy Document .

PCE inflation accelerates in March. What it means for Fed rate cuts

A key inflation measure rose sharply in March, further dampening hopes that the Federal Reserve will soon cut interest rates .

An underlying gauge of price increases stayed elevated. And household spending increased dramatically again, possibly keeping inflation higher for longer.

Consumer prices overall increased 2.7% from a year earlier, above February's 2.5% rise but well below the 40-year high of 7% in June 2022, according to the Commerce Department’s personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index.

On a monthly basis, prices increased 0.3%, in line with the advance the prior month, the PCE index shows.

What is the current core PCE inflation rate?

A measure of “core” prices that excludes volatile food and energy items and that the Fed follows more closely increased 0.3% on a monthly basis, the same as in February. That kept the annual increase at 2.8%.

Protect your assets: Best high-yield savings accounts of 2023

The disappointing readings were largely expected after the Commerce Department said in Thursday’s report on economic growth that core PCE inflation rose at an annual rate of 3.7% in the first quarter, more than the 3.4% forecasters projected. The big gain was mostly the result of an upward revision to January's monthly increase to 0.5% from 0.45%, says economist Paul Ashworth of Capital Economics.

Just a few weeks ago, Fed Chair Jerome Powell  said the central bank would not overreact to worrisome inflation numbers in January and February. He suggested they could have been blips and inflation still appeared headed toward the Fed’s 2% target.

His tone changed after another inflation measure out this month, the consumer price index, revealed larger-than-expected gains in March. Overall inflation jumped to 3.5% from 3.2% and the core reading stayed high at 3.8%.

Economists were hoping the PCE figures would provide some solace because they’ve been running well below CPI. And rent, which has been leaping steadily, has half the weight in the PCE index that it holds in CPI. The Fed also tends to watch PCE more closely.

What's the market doing today?

Despite the high annual inflation readings, investors largely took Friday's report in stride. That's because the 0.3% monthly gain in overall and core prices was largely in line with expectations, says Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance. It's also down from the increase in January.

In early trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 86 points to 38.171 and the S&P 500 index was up 0.8%.

Is inflation expected to go down?

The price of goods such as used cars, furniture and appliances generally have fallen as pandemic-related supply chain snarls have resolved. But the cost of services, including rent, car insurance and health care, have climbed higher, in part because of sharply rising wages tied to COVID-19-induced labor shortages.

Last month, goods prices ticked up just 0.1% as the cost of vehicles and parts tumbled 0.6%.

But the cost of services jumped 0.6%. Transportation surged 1.6% and financial services and insurance increased 0.5%.

Is the Fed going to lower interest rates in 2024?

After the CPI report, Powell said “it's likely to take longer than expected” for the Fed to gain confidence that inflation is heading sustainably to the Fed’s target. Futures market that had anticipated the first decrease of the Fed's key interest rate in June and a total of three cuts this year now expect just one in September.

Lower rates make mortgages and other loans less expensive, juicing economic activity, and they typically fuel stock market gains.

Inflation has been on the rise: Inflation came in hot at 3.5% in March, CPI report shows. Fed could delay rate cuts.

"The hot inflation readings through March should write off any rate cuts in the first half of 2024," Nationwide senior economist Ben Ayers wrote in a note to clients. "Given the momentum for the economy and prices, we don’t expect the Fed to strongly consider (cutting rates) until its September meeting at the earliest."

He added there's a risk the Fed won't start lowering rates until next year.

Some economists still believe inflation can resume its downshift fairly quickly as a decline in rent for new tenant leases begins to affect existing lease renewals and slowing wage growth restrains the rising cost of services.

Is consumer spending up or down right now?

Household spending increased a hefty 0.8% after a similar rise the previous month.

Personal income rose 0.5%, up from 0.3%.

But Americans are drawing heavily from savings to help finance their purchases, a trend that's unlikely to persist. The personal savings rate, the share of income that households are socking away, fell from 3.6% to 3.2% last month. That's the lowest since October 2022 and down from a pre-pandemic average of about 7%.

They're squirreling away less money from their paychecks and other income in part because pandemic-related savings are running dry. Credit card debt is at a record high as low- and middle-income people struggle to keep pace with higher costs. And delinquencies are at historic highs.

But job growth is still robust and average pay increases have outpaced inflation since last spring, giving households more purchasing power. Strong demand for products and services can put upward pressure on prices.

At the same time, hiring and the number of people quitting jobs both have slipped below pre-pandemic levels, underscoring that the labor market is cooling. Net job growth has remained surprisingly strong chiefly because companies have been reluctant to lay off workers after severe pandemic-related labor shortages.

A broadly softening labor market should soon allow inflation to resume easing notably, as it did last year, says economist Paul Ashworth of Capital Economics. That should let the Fed cut interest rates in the fall, the research firm says.

The Whakaari/White Island disaster. An analysis informed by sociological theories of risk

• Silvia Zanini no affiliations
• Dr Simon A Bennett University of Leicester, England

On December 9, 2019, the volcano on Whakaari/White Island, a popular New Zealand (NZ) tourist destination, erupted. Twenty-two people died. Drawing on sociological theories of risk, most particularly on systems-thinking, this qualitative analysis describes the origins of the disaster, formulates questions for the authorities and suggests actions to reduce the chances of a repeat. It is concluded that the safety culture of NZ’s adventure tourism (AT) industry requires attention. It is also concluded that bureaucratic devices such as the adventure tourism insurance cover provided by NZ’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) may have encouraged, through a risk-compensation dynamic, greater risk-taking. It is suggested that improved oversight will deliver a safer adventure tourism industry. It is recommended that the authorities investigate to what extent insurance cover influences business practices.

Author Biographies

Silvia zanini, no affiliations.

Mrs Silvia Zanini graduated from Leicester University with an MsC in Risk, Crisis and Disaster Management in January 2020. She has extensive risk experience gained in the UK and NZ working for several large organisations both in the private and public sectors. She is interested in risk culture and incident and crisis management.

Dr Simon A Bennett, University of Leicester, England

Dr Simon Bennett directs the Civil Safety and Security Unit. He is interested in the organisational social economic and political origins of risk. For example loss of organisational memory mindlessness groupthink reductionism satisficing hollowing-out aggressive profit-seeking and graft. He has published extensively on aviation safety issues and has spent over 1500 hours on the jump-seats of a variety of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft including the EC135 and A321. His aviation research takes in flight-deck human factors and functionalist cultural transformation tools such as crew resource management (CRM). He is a Member of the Air Safety Group of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS). He has trained pilots in CRM and fatigue-risk management has spent time in a B737 simulator and has taken safety and emergency procedures (SEP) courses on a variety of types including the B747-800. Dr Bennett has worked with the Royal Air Force and UK National Police Air Service (NPAS) on human-factors issues. His latest book Safety in Aviation and Astronautics. A socio-technical approach was published by Routledge in 2022.

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Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage 2024 Review

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Alignment Health Plan

CMS Star Rating Average Medicare star rating, weighted by enrollment. Star ratings are determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Alignment Health Plan sells Medicare Advantage plans in six states, and star ratings from CMS are about average.

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Members in high-rated plans Percentage of members who are in rated contracts with a Medicare star rating of 4 or higher.

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2.36 (Below average)

• Low-cost plans, and a lower average out-of-pocket max than most.
• All plans include prescription drug coverage.
• Some plans in 2024 will include Part B rebates.
• Available in only 6 states.
• Member experience ratings are below the average for major providers.

Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage plans are available in six states, and the provider’s star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are average. Member experience ratings, however, fall below those of major providers. In 2024, members may have access to new benefit offerings, such as Medicare Part B premium rebates.

Here’s what you should know about Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage.

Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage pros and cons

Alignment Health Plan’s offerings have advantages and disadvantages.

Low-cost plans: Most Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage plans offer a $0 premium, and the average maximum out-of-pocket cost is lower than major providers. 

Part B help: Alignment’s smartHMO plans offer Medicare Part B rebates.

Drug coverage: All Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.

Help for chronically ill: Alignment offers a $500+ quarterly allowance to members of some Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) that they can use for things like groceries and home safety items.

Limited availability: Alignment Health Plan offers Medicare Advantage plans in just six states: Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina and Texas. 

Member experience marks: Average member experience ratings, including customer service and care coordination, for all Alignment Medicare Advantage plans fall below the average for major providers. 

» MORE: Best Medicare Advantage plans

Alignment Health Plan Medicare star ratings

Average star rating, weighted by enrollment: 3.95

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services maintains star ratings for Medicare Advantage plans on a 5-point scale, ranking plans from best (5 stars) to worst (1 star). The agency bases these ratings on plans’ quality of care and measurements of customer satisfaction, and ratings may change from year to year.

Based on the most recent year of data and weighted by enrollment, Alignment Health Plan’s 2024 Medicare Advantage plans get an average rating of 3.95 stars [0] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services . 2024 Star Ratings Data Tables (Oct 13 2023) (ZIP) . Accessed Apr 18, 2024. View all sources .

For comparison, the average star rating for plans from all providers is 4.04 [0] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services . 10.13.23 Fact Sheet - 2024 Medicare Advantage and Part D Ratings (PDF) . Accessed Apr 18, 2024. View all sources .

You can find a plan’s rating with the Medicare plan finding tool .

What does Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage cost?

Costs for Medicare Advantage plans depend on your plan, your geographic location and your health needs.

One of the costs to consider is the plan’s premium. In 2024, nine out of 10 Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage plans that aren’t special needs plans (SNPs) have a $0 premium [0] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services . CY2024_Landscape_Files_Final_20240314 (ZIP) . Accessed Apr 18, 2024. View all sources .

Even as a Medicare Advantage user, you’ll still be responsible for paying your Medicare Part B premium, which is $174.70 per month in 2024 [0] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services . Costs . Accessed Apr 18, 2024. View all sources , although some plans cover part or all of this cost. (Most people pay this standard amount, but if your income is above a certain threshold, you'll pay more .)

Copays, coinsurance and deductibles

Requirements for copays, coinsurance and deductibles vary depending on your plan, location and the services you use. Other out-of-pocket costs to consider include:

Whether the plan covers any part of your monthly Medicare Part B premium.

The plan’s yearly deductibles and any other deductibles, such as a drug deductible.

Copayments and/or coinsurance for each visit or service. For instance, there may be a $10 copay for seeing your primary doctor and a $45 copay for seeing a specialist.

The plan’s in-network and out-of-network out-of-pocket maximums.

Whether your medical providers are in-network or out-of-network, or how often you may go out of network for care.

Whether you require extra benefits, and if the plan charges for them.

To get a sense of costs, use Medicare’s plan-finding tool to compare information among available plans in your area. You can select by insurance carrier to see only Alignment Health Plan plans or compare across carriers.

Available Medicare Advantage plans

There are a few kinds of Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage plans, and they vary in terms of structure, costs and benefits. Alignment Health Plan offers Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans (MAPDs).

Plan offerings include the following types:

A health maintenance organization (HMO) generally requires that you use a specific network of doctors and hospitals. You may need a referral from your primary doctor in order to see a specialist, and out-of-network benefits are usually very limited.

HMO point of service (POS) plans are HMO plans that allow members to get some out-of-network services, but they’ll pay more for those services.

Preferred provider organization (PPO) plans provide the most freedom, allowing you to see any provider that accepts the insurance. You may not need to choose a primary doctor, and you don’t need referrals to see specialists. You can seek out-of-network care, although it may cost more than seeing an in-network doctor.

Special needs plans (SNPs) restrict membership to people with certain diseases or characteristics. Hence, the benefits, network and drug formularies are tailored to the needs of those members. Alignment Health Plan offers two types of SNPs:

Chronic Condition SNP: Designed to meet the needs of members living with certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, congestive heart failure and cardiovascular disease.

Dual-Eligible SNP: For people who are entitled to Medicare and who also qualify for assistance from a state Medicaid program.

Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage service area

Alignment Health Plan offers Medicare Advantage plans in six states: Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina and Texas.

Alignment Health Plan covers 144,000 Medicare Advantage beneficiaries [0] The Chartis Group . Mounting Headwinds in Medicare Advantage Market Haven't Stopped Growth . Accessed Apr 18, 2024. View all sources .

Compare Medicare Advantage providers

Get more information below about some of the major Medicare Advantage providers. These insurers offer plans in most states. The plans you can choose from will depend on your ZIP code and county.

AARP Medicare Advantage plans .

Aetna Medicare Advantage plans .

Anthem Medicare Advantage plans.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans .

Cigna Medicare Advantage plans.

Humana Medicare Advantage plans .

Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage plans.

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans .

Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans .

Find the right Medicare Advantage plan

It’s important to do your research before selecting a Medicare Advantage plan for yourself . Here are some questions to consider asking:

What are the plan’s costs? Do you understand what the plan’s premium, deductibles, copays and/or coinsurance will be? Can you afford them?

Is your doctor in-network? If you have a preferred medical provider or providers, make sure they participate in the plan’s network.

Are your prescriptions covered? If you’re on medication, it’s crucial to understand how the plan covers it. What tier are your prescription drugs on, and are there any coverage rules that apply to them?

Is there dental coverage? Does the plan offer routine coverage for vision, dental and hearing needs?

Are there extras? Does the plan offer any extra benefits, such as fitness memberships, transportation benefits or meal delivery?

More on NerdWallet.com

Best Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know

What Is Medicare, and What Does It Cover?

Airlines must cough up cancellation cash and can no longer hide fees under new federal rule

A federal rule announced Wednesday will require airlines to quickly give cash refunds — without lengthy arguments — to passengers whose flights have been canceled or seriously delayed, the Biden administration said.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them — without headaches or haggling,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.

The rule from the Transportation Department says passengers who decline other reimbursement like travel credits are to get cash refunds.

It applies when a flight is canceled or has a “significant change,” the administration said.A “significant change” includes when departure or arrival times are three or more hours different from the scheduled times for domestic flights or six hours for international flights, and when the airport is changed or connections are added, it said.

Passengers are also to get refunds when their baggage is 12 hours late in delivery for domestic flights.

The new rule comes after promises to hold airlines accountable after major disruptions that made travel hell for passengers, including the 2022 Southwest Airlines meltdown , which resulted in almost 17,000 significantly delayed or canceled flights and a missing baggage nightmare.

The Transportation Department said that the new rule means refunds are automatic and that "airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops."

Also announced Wednesday was a rule requiring airlines to more clearly disclose so-called junk fees upfront, such as surprise baggage or other fees, the department said.

It said that rule is expected to save fliers around $500 million a year.

The surprise fees are used so tickets look cheaper than they really are, and then fliers get the unwelcome surprise of fees on checked bags, carry-on bags or reservation changes — or even discounts that are advertised but apply to only part of the ticket price, officials said.

Airlines will also have to tell fliers clearly that their seats are guaranteed and that they don't have to pay extra to ensure they have seats for flights, according to the Transportation Department.

Airlines for America, an industry trade group, said that its member airlines “offer transparency and vast choice to consumers from first search to touchdown” and that they do offer cash refunds.

The 11 largest U.S. airlines returned $10.9 billion in cash refunds last year, an increase over $7.5 billion in 2019 but slightly down from $11.2 billion in 2022, the group said.

“U.S. airlines are providing more options and better services while ticket prices, including ancillary revenues, are at historic lows,” Airlines for America said.

Left out of the federal changes announced Wednesday are those involving "family seating fees," but the Transportation Department said in a statement that "DOT is planning to propose a separate rule that bans airlines from charging these junk fees."

Travelers have complained to the Transportation Department that children weren’t seated next to accompanying adults, including in some cases young children, department officials said last year.

Fees on bags specifically have made up an increasing amount of airline revenues, the Transportation Department said Wednesday in announcing the new rules.

A Transportation Department analysis found that airline revenue from baggage fees increased 30% from 2018 to 2022, while operating revenue — which is from the flights themselves — increased by only half that amount, the department said.

Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer covering such areas as transportation, space, medical and consumer issues.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.