Things go wrong!

When they do, find the right care at the right place. 

Call 111 in an emergency

If you do need to go to ED, the following hospitals have emergency departments. Remember, Healthline is a good first option to check if you should go to ED, or if there is an urgent after hours doctor closer to you. 

  • Lakes District Hospital, Queenstown

  • Oamaru Hospital

  • Southland Hospital, Invercargill

  • Dunedin Hospital

  • Gore Hospital

Get vaccinated against flu

Don't let the flu get you! It could be FREE for you, if you...

  • Are over 65 years and older anywhere in Aotearoa NZ,

  • Are Māori or Pasifika 55 years and older and live in Otago and Southland,

  • Have a long-term condition like diabetes, asthma, or a heart condition and/or long-term mental health condition.

Where can I get a flu vaccination?

At your medical centre, pharmacy or local community clinics. They'll be able to check if you are eligible for a free vaccine.

You can get a lot at a pharmacy

Pharmacies can provide advice and care on numerous health conditions ahead and during winter, including:

  • Advice and support for cough/colds, sore throats, constipation/diarrhoea.

  • Over the counter medication like paracetamol.

  • Covid and flu immunisations.

  • First aid and wound care.

  • Treatment for UTIs and conjunctivitis

  • Supplements such as vitamin D and C

  • Urgent repeat prescriptions

Find your nearest pharmacy at www.healthpoint.co.nz and search for “pharmacy”. 

I'm not sure who I should talk to...

Healthline is free 24/7 medical helpline at 0800 611 116, where clinical staff will help you find the right care and tell you what the next steps are, for example seeing a nurse, doctor or pharmacist. 

I've been told to seek care, but it's after hours...

Contact your enrolled general practice, even if you are not in the same area. They will have an after-hours message which will take you through to a telehealth service, such as Ka Ora.

You can also call Ka Ora directly for a same-day phone or video consultation and are available from 5pm to 8.30am on weekdays and round the clock on weekends and public holidays. 

Book online or call on 0800 2 KA ORA (0800 252 672).

I need to see a doctor or nurse

Find nearby practices on www.healthpoint.co.nz. Always call first to book, find out opening hours and fees.

You will not be eligible for subsidised care at a general practice you are not enrolled at.

Many centres don’t offer walk-in appointments; please call first.

Get help on the phone - Telehealth/telecare

There are various telehealth providers that offer phone or video consults. Costs vary. Go to www.healthify.nz and search for “telehealth”.

If you’re in a rural area at the time of the call, you can have a free Ka Ora telecare consultation (charges may apply for consults with a GP) from 5pm to 8am. Book online or call us 0800 2 KA ORA (0800 252 672). 

Need to talk?

  • Free call or text 1737 for support.

  • Youthline: 0800 376 633, free text 234, or email talk@youthline.co.nz

  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).

  • Visit Are You OK? www.areyouok.org.nz/

Physiotherapy

Back pain, strain, sprain or other joint injury? No referral is needed.

Locate your nearest physio at www.healthpoint.co.nz and search for “physiotherapy.

Sore teeth?

Find your nearest urgent dentist at www.healthpoint.co.nz and search for “urgent dental”.

Then click on “Dental Emergency?”.

Find useful information about common conditions at Home | Healthify.

To find local healthcare providers, go to Healthpoint.