- The best travel insurance plans for New Zealand
- Current travel safety in New Zealand
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter New Zealand?
- Why take out travel insurance for New Zealand?
- What should travel insurance for New Zealand cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for New Zealand
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to New Zealand
- Can you rely on your current insurance to cover you in New Zealand?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for New Zealand: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for New Zealand covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage for travellers.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians, but it is strongly recommended for financial protection.
3. Healthcare cost: Visitor healthcare is expensive, with hospital stays often costing over $800 CAD per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for New Zealand typically costs between $40 and $80 CAD.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure activities, as standard plans may exclude them.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for New Zealand.
The best travel insurance plans for New Zealand
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.5M $CA | Our top recommendation for Canada–New Zealand travel. - very high medical and hospital limits - covers repatriation - strong natural disaster protection |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.5M $CA | A reliable plan for both short and longer stays. - 24/7 medical helpline - high medical ceiling - trip cancellation benefits |
| Tourist Card | 0.75M $CA | Solid core protection that works for New Zealand tourism. - emergency medical and evacuation - clear claims process - suitable for short-term trips |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.1M $CA | Good value for balanced coverage for Canadians abroad. - high reimbursement - repatriation included - wide international scope |
| Globe Partner | 0.45M $CA | Dependable essentials for medical needs in New Zealand. - emergency cover - medical repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | 0.75M $CA | Best for budget trips and light adventure. - essential benefits - quick compensation - adequate ceiling for classic trips |
- very high medical and hospital limits
- covers repatriation
- strong natural disaster protection
- 24/7 medical helpline
- high medical ceiling
- trip cancellation benefits
- emergency medical and evacuation
- clear claims process
- suitable for short-term trips
- high reimbursement
- repatriation included
- wide international scope
- emergency cover
- medical repatriation
- civil liability included
- essential benefits
- quick compensation
- adequate ceiling for classic trips
Current travel safety in New Zealand
As of June 2025, Global Affairs Canada advises travellers that the general security situation in New Zealand is stable, with a rating of “normal security precautions” for Canadian visitors.
- Security risks: while overall crime rates are low, petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots like Auckland and Wellington. Adventure activities, such as bungee jumping near Queenstown, have occasional safety incidents due to variable standards among operators.
- Health risks: no specific vaccination is required for entry, but routine immunisations should be up to date. Medical services are of high quality, but access comes at a cost for non-residents, and payment is required up front in hospitals.
- Natural hazards: New Zealand is exposed to environmental risks, including frequent earthquakes in the Wellington region and volcanic activity in areas like Rotorua. Cyclones and sudden flooding can disrupt travel, especially between November and April.
- Legal and administrative aspects: carrying prescription medication requires supporting documentation and some drugs common in Canada may be prohibited or restricted. Travellers must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration online before arrival and respect biosecurity rules on food and plants.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in New Zealand.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter New Zealand?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian travellers to enter New Zealand.
Although you are not legally required to present proof of insurance to border officials, it is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada due to the high cost of medical care and the obligation to pay up front for most medical services in New Zealand.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to New Zealand. This high rate reflects the expense of emergency medical care and the remote nature of certain regions.
Why take out travel insurance for New Zealand?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to New Zealand.
In New Zealand, non-residents must pay the full cost of health care, with hospitals like Auckland City Hospital and clinics in Wellington often charging high fees. Private care is common for foreigners and even minor emergencies require upfront payment. For example, a simple hospital consultation in Christchurch can become expensive without insurance.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in New Zealand.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Auckland City Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 4,000 NZD (approx. 3,300 $CA) | up to 100% (limits apply by contract) |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,600 NZD (approx. 2,150 $CA) | up to 100% (limits apply by contract) |
| I need to be repatriated | 60,000 NZD (approx. 49,700 $CA) | up to 100% (limits apply by contract) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 14,000 NZD (approx. 11,600 $CA) | up to 100% (limits apply by contract) |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for New Zealand cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for New Zealand.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers accidents or illness, public and private hospital fees, medical consultations and prescriptions. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 250,000 $CA due to costly care for non-residents. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation & repatriation | Covers medical transport to Canada or to the nearest centre if needed, including air ambulance. We recommend at least 150,000 $CA due to New Zealand’s geographic isolation. |
| 💊 Hospitalization & surgery | Pays for surgery, room and board, intensive care, and specialist follow-up. We recommend at least 200,000 $CA for these risks in New Zealand’s main hospitals. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Refunds non-refundable bookings if you must cancel or curtail your trip due to illness, accident, or emergencies. A minimum of 7,500 $CA for cancellation or trip curtailment is advised. |
| 🧳 Baggage insurance | Covers loss, theft, or damage to luggage or personal items. We recommend coverage up to 3,000 $CA per person, taking into account long-haul flights and transits. |
| 🦷 Dental emergencies | Covers urgent dental care due to accident or infection during the trip. A limit of at least 1,000 $CA is practical in New Zealand. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Covers damages you cause to others unintentionally, such as bodily injury or property damage. We recommend liability coverage of at least 1M $CA. |
| 📱 24/7 assistance | Provides access to multilingual helplines, medical advice, and legal support in emergencies. Choose a provider offering high-quality, accessible support without limits on call frequency or duration. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 250,000 $CA due to costly care for non-residents.
We recommend at least 150,000 $CA due to New Zealand’s geographic isolation.
We recommend at least 200,000 $CA for these risks in New Zealand’s main hospitals.
A minimum of 7,500 $CA for cancellation or trip curtailment is advised.
We recommend coverage up to 3,000 $CA per person, taking into account long-haul flights and transits.
A limit of at least 1,000 $CA is practical in New Zealand.
We recommend liability coverage of at least 1M $CA.
Choose a provider offering high-quality, accessible support without limits on call frequency or duration.
Travel insurance offered by local providers or bank cards typically has low ceilings and many exclusions. Choosing a trusted insurer with comprehensive benefits is safer. You can compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for an instant certificate.
The cost of travel insurance for New Zealand
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 38 $CA |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 56 $CA |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 86 $CA |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 183 $CA |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance for New Zealand varies. Key factors include your age, the duration of your stay, the level of coverage, and any optional add-ons like adventure sports or trip cancellation. Considering these elements is crucial to finding a policy that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you're well-protected during your travels.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to New Zealand
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to New Zealand while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Duration of stay | Longer coverage means higher price, so choose dates realistically, factoring in pre- and post-trip buffer days. | Limit your insured period to the precise length of your trip and avoid unnecessary extensions. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | For some insurers, age is a significant factor, especially if 60 or older. | Compare offers; some, like Heymondo, do not raise prices once over 62, which can lower costs. |
| 🤕 Level of coverage | The higher the ceilings for medical or baggage claims, the more expensive the policy. | Choose the coverage most relevant for you; avoid unnecessary extras and match limits to local costs. |
| 🏞️ Type of activities | Adventure activities such as hiking or bungee jumping often require costlier specialised coverage. | Select only the activities you will actually do. Avoid all-risk options if not needed. |
| 👪 Group or family plans | Many insurers offer discounts for families or groups travelling together. | Opt for a group plan if possible, as this can significantly reduce the per-person rate. |
| 🚑 Deductible amount | Choosing a higher deductible can reduce premiums, but you will pay more out-of-pocket if needed. | Raise your deductible if you are comfortable covering smaller costs yourself in case of a claim. |
| 💻 Where you buy | Policies online from comparison platforms may come with reduced rates or special deals. | Use Canadian comparison tools like HelloSafe to benchmark prices and find occasional discounts. |
Important
Travel insurance is not a legal requirement for Canadian travellers to enter New Zealand. However, make sure your coverage includes medical expenses, hospitalisation and repatriation, as these costs can be high for foreign visitors.
Can you rely on your current insurance to cover you in New Zealand?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your credit card insurance or even Canada’s public health system can protect you on a trip to New Zealand. Unfortunately, this coverage is often very limited or insufficient to meet your real needs should a problem arise abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in New Zealand? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (e.g., Canadian public system, MSP, OHIP) | Never | No overseas health coverage, no emergency repatriation, no hospital fees or medication reimbursement | Travel insurance can cover up to $1,000,000 CA in medical costs, hospitalization, and unlimited repatriation |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | May reimburse some medical costs after return (often $5,000–$10,000 CA), rarely covers repatriation | Travel insurance offers up to $1,000,000 CA, direct payment to New Zealand hospitals, and 24/7 assistance |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, RBC Avion, CIBC Classic) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical ($10,000–$20,000 CA max), no trip cancellation, minimal/luggage delay coverage | Travel insurance includes up to $1,000,000 CA medical, baggage, and trip interruption/resume protection |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, Scotia Gold Passport) | Limited coverage | Medical care up to $100,000–$500,000 CA, some trip delay or interruption ($500–$1,500 CA) | Travel insurance matches or exceeds $1,000,000 CA, and includes higher trip cancellation and baggage coverage |
Example
While hiking near Queenstown, Mark suffered a severe fall, requiring a helicopter rescue and surgery for a broken ankle. The total cost reached $25,000 CAD. His RBC Avion Visa's included insurance had a low limit, and his provincial plan covered almost nothing, leaving him with a massive unexpected bill.
Expert advice
Essential coverage, like trip interruption for a relative's illness, is often excluded from credit card and provincial health plans. Always read your policy's conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, subscribing to a dedicated travel insurance plan tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in New Zealand. You must, however, obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure and meet other entry requirements such as proof of funds and a return or onward ticket.
How do I purchase travel insurance for New Zealand?
First, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best price and coverage. Second, check policy details and exclusions relevant to New Zealand, paying special attention to coverage for activities and potential risks in the country. Third, buy your selected plan online. Fourth, receive your insurance certificate by email.
What documents do I need to enter New Zealand as a tourist?
You need a passport valid for at least three months after your intended departure from New Zealand, an approved NZeTA, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. You must also fill out the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online shortly before travel.
Is healthcare expensive in New Zealand for visitors?
Healthcare in New Zealand is high quality but it is costly for non-residents. You will be required to pay in full for medical care, hospitalization, or emergency services, as Canadian public health insurance does not cover you abroad. Travel insurance with sufficient medical coverage is highly recommended.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I decide to stay in New Zealand longer than planned?
Many providers allow you to extend your travel insurance while you are still abroad, but this often must be done before your existing policy expires. You should check your initial insurer’s conditions and initiate the extension process early to avoid gaps in coverage.
What should I do if I need medical help during my trip to New Zealand?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance hotline, available 24/7 as part of most policies. They will guide you to an appropriate medical facility, provide paperwork for claims, and may arrange direct payment with hospitals or clinics if your policy includes this service. Always keep your insurance certificate and contact details accessible.
Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in New Zealand. You must, however, obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure and meet other entry requirements such as proof of funds and a return or onward ticket.
How do I purchase travel insurance for New Zealand?
First, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best price and coverage. Second, check policy details and exclusions relevant to New Zealand, paying special attention to coverage for activities and potential risks in the country. Third, buy your selected plan online. Fourth, receive your insurance certificate by email.
What documents do I need to enter New Zealand as a tourist?
You need a passport valid for at least three months after your intended departure from New Zealand, an approved NZeTA, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. You must also fill out the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online shortly before travel.
Is healthcare expensive in New Zealand for visitors?
Healthcare in New Zealand is high quality but it is costly for non-residents. You will be required to pay in full for medical care, hospitalization, or emergency services, as Canadian public health insurance does not cover you abroad. Travel insurance with sufficient medical coverage is highly recommended.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I decide to stay in New Zealand longer than planned?
Many providers allow you to extend your travel insurance while you are still abroad, but this often must be done before your existing policy expires. You should check your initial insurer’s conditions and initiate the extension process early to avoid gaps in coverage.
What should I do if I need medical help during my trip to New Zealand?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance hotline, available 24/7 as part of most policies. They will guide you to an appropriate medical facility, provide paperwork for claims, and may arrange direct payment with hospitals or clinics if your policy includes this service. Always keep your insurance certificate and contact details accessible.
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