Am I eligible for free health services in New Zealand?

You may be able to access free or subsidised health and disability services if you meet the following criteria:

• a NZ citizen or permanent resident or
• an Australian citizen or permanent resident who’s lived, or intends to live, in NZ for at least 2 years or
• a work visa holder who’s eligible to be in NZ for 2 years or more or
• meet other criteria as is shown on the eligibility checklists

https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/our-health-system/eligibility-for-publicly-funded-health-services/resources-for-service-providers-to-check-eligibility/eligibility-checklists-and-decision-trees/

Being eligible does not make you entitled to receive a service — many services have their own criteria you’ll need to meet, and many are financially means tested.

For example: If you want to live in a rest home (residential care) you will need to:

• have an assessment showing your need for that care and
• undergo a financial assessment to determine whether you are eligible for financial assistance .

For further information and to find providers of nationwide services 

• Any
• Advocacy services
• Formal groups & organisations
• Government & local bodies
• Mental Health (Community)
• Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC)