New Zealand has an excellent healthcare system, comprising of public and private providers. However, these health services are generally not free for international students.

For a cold, influenza, or other common health problem, visit a general practitioner (GP) at the student health centre on the campus of your tertiary institution, or your host family's GP. If the doctor prescribes medicine for you, it is important to tell the doctor if you have any allergies and if you are taking any other medication, including herbal medicine.

Make an appointment to see your doctor. If you need emergency help, go to an After Hours Medical Centre or the Accident and Emergency Clinic at a hospital.

In the cities there is a wide range of treatment available, including chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, naturopathy, homeopathy and Chinese medicine.

Emergencies

If you have a serious health emergency or accident, dial 111 and ask for 'Ambulance'. The call is free - you don't need coins or a phone card even if you are dialling from a public phone box. This is also the emergency number for police and fire services.

Hospital Treatment

If you need surgery or other treatment, you will probably have to pay for it at a private hospital, unless you are eligible to public hospital treatment in New Zealand.

Alcohol

In New Zealand the legal age for alcohol is 18. Supermarkets sell alcohol seven days a week, and may ask to see your passport as proof of age. There are serious legal consequences for drunk driving.

Poisoning

The National Poison Information Centre has a 24-hour emergency number: freephone 0800 POISON (0800 764 766).

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Hospital Sexual Health Clinics, the Family Planning Association and some youth health centres provide a free, confidential service for contraceptive advice, sexually transmitted infections, cervical screening and pregnancy testing. Youngsters are sexually librated in New Zealand, similar to European countries. They are much freer than in most Asian countries. Trustworthy adults at the above agencies, or the counsellors at your school or institution, can give you advice and support.

Disabilities

Buildings are specially designed for wheelchairs. Many older buildings now have ramps. Some institutions have hearing loops. There are usually volunteer or paid reader/writers (in English) to help students who have difficulty writing or reading.