Travel in New Zealand

New Zealand is like a home away from home for many Australians wishing to travel overseas but not wanting to go too far. YOURLifeChoices subscribers, Peter and Beverley are off there soon but want to know about reciprocal Medicare arrangements.

Q. Peter and Beverley
We are pensioners going to NZ to be with our son for six weeks after Christmas. We understand that Australians have reciprocal medical etc. in New Zealand but are not sure as to what extent. Our age makes travel insurance very expensive and being very responsible people we hope to be able to do without it.

Also, are our Australian driver's licences OK to use whilst driving in NZ?

A. How lovely, spending time with family in New Zealand is the perfect break. Australia does have a reciprocal Medicare arrangement with New Zealand which covers in-patient hospital treatment and accommodation but does not cover out-patient, GP consultations or prescriptions. Any prescriptions will be charged at non-concessional rates. You can find out more by clicking YOURLifeChoices link to Medicare Australia.

You may also wish to consider that you will not be covered should you need an ambulance or need to be transferred under medical supervision back to Australia. This agreement really only covers emergency treatment which requires a hospital stay. You should consider some form of travel insurance to ensure you are covered for the unexpected. Mondial Worldcare offer comprehensive travel insurance at competitive rates. Find out more or get a quote.

You should be able to drive in New Zealand with your Australian drivers licence, as long as there are no restrictions on your licence. For more information or to clarify any of the above information, you can contact the New Zealand High Commission in Canberra.

Remember, even though you are only away for a relatively short time, you should advise Centrelink that you will be out of the country to ensure any benefits are paid during this time.

We hope you have a wonderful and safe trip.