Waiting periods (also called stand-down periods) are one of the most misunderstood aspects of health insurance in New Zealand. Here's everything you need to know.
What is a Waiting Period?
A waiting period is a period after you take out a health insurance policy during which you cannot make certain claims. This protects insurers against people taking out insurance when they already know they need treatment.
Common NZ Health Insurance Waiting Periods
General waiting period: Most NZ health policies have a 2–3 month general stand-down period before you can claim for new conditions.
Specific condition waiting periods: Longer waiting periods (often 6 months to 2 years) for specific conditions like: - Mental health treatment - Maternity and pregnancy-related conditions - Oral surgery and dental work - Optical and vision correction
Moratorium underwriting: If you chose moratorium underwriting, conditions you've had in the past 5 years won't be covered for the first 2–5 years of your policy.
Accidents Are Usually Covered Immediately
Most health insurance policies cover accidents from day one — so if you break your arm the week after taking out insurance, you're usually covered.
How to Minimise Waiting Period Impact
1. Apply when healthy: The healthier you are when you apply, the fewer exclusions and waiting periods you'll face 2. Apply young: Start your insurance before you develop health conditions 3. Choose full medical underwriting: Greater certainty about what's covered and excluded 4. Read your policy carefully: Understand exactly what waiting periods apply to your policy