Question 1

When should I get pregnancy coverage?

Accepted Answer

It's best to get coverage at least 12 months before you plan to conceive, as most health insurance policies in New Zealand have a 12-month waiting period for maternity benefits. If you're already pregnant when you apply for a new policy, that pregnancy won't be covered. This waiting period applies to planned pregnancies and normal childbirth, though pregnancy complications that arise after the waiting period is complete are typically covered in full. Planning ahead ensures you have access to private obstetricians, your choice of hospital, and comprehensive coverage for both routine maternity care and any unexpected complications that may arise during pregnancy or delivery.

Question 2

What pregnancy and maternity costs does health insurance cover in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Comprehensive pregnancy coverage in New Zealand typically includes private obstetrician consultations throughout your pregnancy, specialist pregnancy scans and genetic testing, private hospital delivery with choice of facility, caesarean sections if required (both planned and emergency), epidural and pain management, extended hospital stays for mother and baby, and postnatal specialist consultations. Coverage also extends to pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, premature labor, and placental complications. Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stays, premature baby specialist care, and newborn pediatric care are generally included. The total value can exceed $25,000 for complicated births, making insurance coverage highly valuable for expectant parents seeking private care options.

Question 3

What if I have pregnancy complications?

Accepted Answer

Once your maternity waiting period is complete and coverage is active, pregnancy complications are typically covered in full, even if they result in significant medical costs. This comprehensive coverage includes emergency caesarean sections, premature births requiring extended hospital stays, NICU care for your baby, treatment for conditions like pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes, placental complications requiring immediate intervention, and specialist care for high-risk pregnancies. The coverage extends to both mother and baby, ensuring that unexpected medical situations don't result in financial hardship. Most policies cover complications without additional excess payments for maternity claims, and there are typically no annual limits specifically for pregnancy-related complications, providing peace of mind during a vulnerable time.

Question 4

Does my partner need separate health insurance coverage for pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if your partner wants private healthcare coverage, they need their own health insurance policy, as maternity benefits are tied to the mother's insurance coverage. However, once your baby is born, you have special enrollment provisions that allow you to add the newborn to either parent's policy, usually within 30 days of birth without waiting periods for the baby's coverage. This means your baby can access private healthcare immediately if needed. Some policies also offer family coverage options that may be more cost-effective than separate individual policies. It's important to review both parents' policy options before the birth to determine the best strategy for covering your newborn, considering factors like policy limits, premiums, and the comprehensiveness of coverage offered.

Question 5

What pregnancy-related services are NOT covered by health insurance?

Accepted Answer

While comprehensive pregnancy coverage is extensive, certain services are typically not covered by health insurance in New Zealand. Fertility treatments and IVF procedures are generally excluded, as are pregnancies conceived before your policy start date or during the waiting period. Elective procedures during pregnancy that aren't medically necessary, some alternative birthing methods at home or in non-approved facilities, and pregnancy resulting from pre-existing fertility issues may also be excluded. Routine prenatal vitamins and over-the-counter medications are usually not covered, though prescribed medications typically are. Additionally, some policies may not cover certain experimental treatments or procedures not recognized as standard medical practice. It's essential to review your policy's specific exclusions and understand what constitutes covered maternity care versus excluded services before making healthcare decisions during pregnancy.

Pregnancy & Maternity Insurance

60,000+

$15,000+

12 Months

Why Pregnancy Coverage is Important

Private Maternity Costs

Benefits of Private Care

Coverage Throughout Your Pregnancy Journey

Prenatal Care

Birth & Delivery

Postnatal Care

Best Health Insurance for Pregnancy Coverage

Wellbeing Two

Ultimate Health

Premier Family

Planning for Pregnancy Coverage

Before Conception

During Pregnancy

Coverage for Pregnancy Complications

Common Complications Covered

NICU and Special Care

Important Coverage Considerations

Waiting Periods

What May Not Be Covered

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I get pregnancy coverage?

What if I have pregnancy complications?

Does my partner need separate coverage?

Plan Ahead for Your Family's Future