Your GP is your first stop for health care, and you need a GP referral to see a public hospital specialist. You are eligible for publicly funded care if your work visa lets you stay in New Zealand for 2 years or more (including time you have already been here legally). Children aged 17 or under in your care are also eligible, but a partner must qualify on their own visa (except for maternity services). If you are not eligible, you pay the full casual fee. Eligibility rules change in part from 1 December 2026, so check Health NZ again after that date.

Many Hamilton clinics are not taking new patients — check 'Accepting new patients' on Healthpoint, and ring the clinic. Fees for enrolled adults vary a lot between clinics. Enrolled children under 14 get free standard visits at participating clinics (most clinics take part). For urgent care, Anglesea Clinic (3 Thackeray St, 07 858 0800) is open 24 hours; unenrolled adults pay about $140 and under-14s are free. Not sure where to go? Call Healthline free on 0800 611 116, any time. For emergencies call 111.