Southern Cross Health Insurance Review
Comprehensive review of New Zealand's largest health insurer
Quick Answer
Southern Cross is New Zealand's largest health insurer with 55% market share and 900,000+ members. As a not-for-profit, they offer comprehensive coverage starting from approximately $80-150/month depending on age and plan level. Best for those wanting the most extensive provider network and established claims process. Plans cover major medical events with options ranging from basic hospital cover to comprehensive health insurance.
About Southern Cross
As New Zealand's largest health insurance provider, Southern Cross operates as a not-for-profit organization, reinvesting surplus funds into member benefits. With over 60 years of experience, they serve approximately 900,000 New Zealanders with comprehensive health coverage and excellent customer service.
Plan Features
- $500,000 surgical cover
- $100,000 cardiac cover
- $60,000 cancer care including $10,000 non-Pharmac drugs
- $40,000 prophylactic treatment allowance
- 75% GP and physiotherapy visits up to $150/year
Pricing & Value
Pricing: Contact for personalized quote
Entry-level health insurance plan designed to cover major health concerns like cancer and cardiac surgery.
Great Value For:
- • Young individuals, couples and families
- • Entry-level health insurance seekers
- • Major health concern coverage
Coverage Details
Hospital Cover
- • $500,000 surgical cover
- • $100,000 cardiac cover
- • $60,000 cancer care
- • $3,000 skin surgery
Member Benefits
- • Easy-claim app
- • Member discounts
- • Health screenings
- • Wellness resources
Limitations
- • No gynaecology, urology, orthopaedics cover
- • Limited day-to-day benefits
- • 6-month treatment window for consultations
- • Entry-level plan restrictions
Pros & Cons
Pros
- New Zealand's largest health insurer
- Not-for-profit organization serving 900,000 members
- Over 60 years of experience
- Affordable entry-level option
Cons
- Limited specialist coverage
- No cover for restricted specialties
- Limited day-to-day healthcare benefits
Southern Cross vs Other Providers
| Feature | Southern Cross | nib | AIA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Market Share | 55% | 18% | 12% |
| Avg. Monthly Premium | $80-150 | $70-130 | $75-140 |
| Hospital Cover | Up to $500k | Up to $400k | Up to $350k |
| Provider Network | 2,800+ | 1,200+ | 1,500+ |
| Upper Age Limit | None | 75 years | 70 years |
| Waiting Period (Pre-existing) | 6-12 months | 12 months | 12 months |
| Claims Processing | 5-7 days | 3-5 days | 4-6 days |
| Customer Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
💡 Best for: Southern Cross = Widest coverage & no age limit | nib = Budget-conscious | AIA = Family plans
What Customers Say
"Southern Cross provides reliable coverage as New Zealand's most established health insurer."
- Verified Customer Review
"Been with Southern Cross for 15 years. Great claims process and wide network of providers."
- David R., Wellington
Contact Southern Cross
Phone
0800 800 181
info@southerncross.co.nz
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