Health

NZ health system
New Zealand has a public health and disability system, i.e 'socialised': if you qualify then any health and disability services you need are publically funded. If you're coming from overseas, you'll likely need health insurance.

Do I qualify?
To recieve free public health you'll need to be: See the Government Health department Guide to eligibility for publicly funded health services for more information.
 * A New Zealand citizen
 * Have a permanant resident visa, or resident visa
 * An Australian citizen or permanant resident who has lived, or intends on living in NZ for two years or more
 * A work visa holder which allows you to remain in NZ for two years or more

Reciprocal health agreements
New Zealand has reciprocal health agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom (UK).

Insurance
For travellers, you'll need travel health insurance. If you have health insurance at home, you'll need to check with your provider as you probably won't be covered by your policy while in New Zealand.

If you're living in New Zealand, you can purchase private health insurance which gives you access to private hospitals - which means shorter waiting times for non-essential operations. The largest provider is the non-profit Southern Cross . There's no tax advantages or benefits to purchasing private health insurance in New Zealand.