New Zealand Travel Insurance

If you are going overseas on holiday, travel insurance will cover you for accidents, sudden illness and other unexpected and unfortunate events.

There are many companies offering comprehensive travel insurance – some key benefits to look for are:

• 24 hour emergency assistance – generally a phone number in New Zealand you can call to get help in an emergency. Make sure you write it down in a couple of safe places and take it with you!
• Overseas hospitalisation expenses – in some countries, your ability to pay is assessed before your medical condition, and expenses can run to tens of thousands of dollars.
• Medical evacuation back to New Zealand – this can cost tens of thousands of dollars even from relatively close destinations such as Australia.
• GP and prescription costs
• Emergency dental cover
• Travel Cancellation – especially important if you are using budget airlines, some of whom take no responsibility for what happens to you if your flight is cancelled.
• Travel delay & missed connections
• Lost or stolen passports & other important travel documents 
• Travel companion expenses if hospitalised or repatriated
• Lump sum personal accident cover
• Personal liability
• Rental car excess
• Loss of income
• Medical and evacuation expenses due to terrorism
• Cover for luggage and personal effects, including cash

Some insurers offer annual multi-trip cover for people who travel abroad frequently, and there is also cover available for backpackers who are travelling overseas for extended periods. Things to watch for are:

• Pre-existing conditions – it is essential to disclose to your insurer any medical conditions you have, including pregnancy. You may have to pay a bit more, but you will have much better peace of mind. Non-disclosure may invalidate your cover when you need it most.
• Exclusions – some travel policies don’t cover people who are working abroad (specialised insurance is available for this), and others don’t cover you for extreme sports activities. Make sure you read and understand what your policy covers before you go.
• Excesses – individual possessions may only be covered up to a certain dollar limit, and you may have to pay your expenses up to a certain dollar limit if you make a claim. Again, make sure you understand exactly what cover you are buying.
• Zones – cover in places where medical costs are especially high, such as USA, Canada and Japan, costs more. Make sure you buy the right cover, and let your insurer know if your plans change.

Please note that if you are coming on to New Zealand on a work or other temporary visa, particularly if your work visa is for less than two years, you may not qualify for standard New Zealand travel insurance. The health insurance we offer for people who are living in New Zealand but not yet permanent residents may cover you in this instance for holidays in Australia and the South Pacific - please contact us for more information.

The travel insurance market in New Zealand is, as in the UK, quite competitive on price - the main difference seems to be in the level of service you receive. We’d be happy to recommend some insurance companies who have offered our clients an excellent level of service. Have a great trip!

At Broadbase International we specialise in providing expert, impartial financial advice for Brits in New Zealand and Kiwis returning from the UK. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about insurance in New Zealand, and remember to ask for a free copy of our comprehensive New Zealand Guide.