Frequently Asked Questions

HealthCompare NZ is a free online service that helps New Zealanders compare NZ health insurance plans. We work with several insurance providers to offer side-by-side comparisons and help you make informed decisions about your health coverage.

Yes, our comparison service is completely free for users. We receive a commission from insurance providers when you purchase a policy through our platform, but this doesn't affect the price you pay.

We receive a commission from insurance providers when customers purchase policies through our platform. This doesn't affect the price you pay, and our comparisons are not affected by the commissions we receive.

We compare various types of health insurance including hospital cover, everyday health cover (extras), and comprehensive plans from major providers like Southern Cross, nib, and AIA.

Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by provider and condition. Some insurers may cover certain pre-existing conditions after a waiting period, while others may exclude them. We recommend discussing specific conditions with the insurance provider.

Waiting periods are the time you need to wait after purchasing a policy before you can claim benefits. These vary by provider and type of treatment, typically ranging from 0 days for accidents to 12 months for pre-existing conditions.

Simply use our comparison tool to enter your details and preferences. We'll show you side-by-side comparisons of different health insurance plans available in New Zealand, including coverage details, prices, and benefits.

Premiums vary widely by age, smoker status, dependants, and coverage level — get a quote from our adviser for basic-tier coverage. Providers like Accuro, nib, and Partners Life offer entry-level plans. The lowest-priced option may not provide the coverage you need, so it's important to compare benefits as well as price.

Premiums vary widely by your age, smoker status, dependants, coverage level, and provider. Use our quotes form for real numbers — we don't publish indicative figures because the variance is huge.

The right health insurance company depends on your specific needs. Southern Cross is the largest provider with extensive networks, nib offers competitive pricing, AIA provides options for families, and Partners Life focuses on simple, affordable coverage.

The right plan depends on your specific needs, budget, and circumstances. Consider factors like your age, health status, family situation, and what types of medical services you're likely to need. Our comparison tool helps you evaluate these factors.

Yes, but coverage varies by provider. Some insurers cover pre-existing conditions after waiting periods (usually 12 months), while others may exclude them permanently. It's important to declare all conditions during application.

Yes, you can change providers at any time. However, be aware that new waiting periods may apply and pre-existing conditions may be assessed differently by the new provider.

To lower your premium: compare multiple providers, choose a higher excess, opt for basic cover if suitable, pay annually instead of monthly, and look for discounts (family, online, loyalty). Use our comparison tool to compare current options.

Yes, health insurance premiums typically increase as you get older, especially after age 50. Some providers offer age-based pricing while others use community rating. It's worth comparing providers to find current rates for your age group.

Yes, most health insurance providers in NZ offer family discounts. These can range from family discounts vary by insurer when covering multiple family members. Some providers also offer free cover for children when parents are insured.

Yes, foreigners living in New Zealand can get private health insurance. Some providers have specific policies for non-residents or temporary visa holders. Requirements and pricing may vary based on visa status and length of stay.

Claims processes vary by provider. Most insurers offer online claims portals, mobile apps, or paper-based claims. Specific claiming instructions will be provided in your policy documentation.

Our customer support team is available to help you compare plans and understand your options. You can contact us by phone, email, or through our website's contact form.

Most health insurance policies come with a cooling-off period (usually 14 days) during which you can cancel without penalty. After this period, cancellation terms vary by provider.