Travel insurance

Here are some things to think about when you’re buying travel insurance to travel outside of New Zealand.

Are you thinking of travelling outside of New Zealand without insurance? Don’t. Even minor medical treatment can be expensive. The New Zealand Government will not pay these costs.

Type of travel

Are you going on a cruise? Climbing a mountain, diving, or hiring a scooter? You should get a policy that covers any activities you have planned on your trip.

If you’re moving overseas, you might be planning to buy health insurance locally after you arrive. Consider buying travel insurance to cover you for your journey and the time it takes you to arrange insurance at your destination.

Cover your needs

When you’re buying insurance, think about the age and needs of all the people you’re travelling with. Maybe you’re an older person, or you have a pre-existing condition.

It’s important to check that your needs are covered by the policy you buy, and that your insurance provider knows about them.

Find more considerations for specific travellers on our Who is travelling page.

Where you’re going

We provide advice on safety and security risks in other countries. You should check this travel advice for all your destinations before you travel.

Your travel insurance provider may use this advice to decide whether to provide or pay out insurance for your travel. Many policies will not cover your travel to countries or regions we advise against visiting.

Check the travel advice for your destination before you travel. Read our travel advice.

If you’re not sure your insurance covers the places you’re planning to travel, contact your insurance company.

Credit card insurance

Some credit cards come with built-in travel insurance, so you might already have insurance! Don’t travel without checking the details of a policy. How is your coverage activated? Does it come with a higher excess? Does it cover the duration of your trip and the activities you have planned?