Wellington has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the New Zealand Public Health System and is available to all New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. It is also available to foreigners, however, they may need to pay for some services. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Wellington for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Wellington are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. The wait times can be long, however, the quality of care is generally good. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in New Zealand. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Wellington are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. The wait times are usually shorter than public hospitals, however, the cost of care is higher.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Wellington
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Wellington for expats. Wellington Regional Hospital is a public hospital located in Newtown, Wellington. It is well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Wellington Hospital is a private hospital located in Newtown, Wellington. It specializes in orthopedic surgery, cardiology, and oncology. Hutt Hospital is a public hospital located in Lower Hutt, approximately 20 minutes from Wellington. It is well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Hutt Valley Private Hospital is a private hospital located in Lower Hutt, approximately 20 minutes from Wellington. It specializes in orthopedic surgery, cardiology, and oncology.
Emergency Services in Wellington
Wellington has ambulance services available. To call for an ambulance, dial 111. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, however, there can be delays depending on the situation.
Health Insurance Companies in Wellington
The most popular private health insurers in Wellington are Southern Cross Health Society, nib NZ, and AIA New Zealand. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Wellington: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Wellington for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices in terms of housing and entertainment expenses.Firstly, you’ll want to look for housing in more affordable neighborhoods. Some of the more expensive areas in Wellington, like Oriental Bay, Thorndon, and Kelburn, might be out of your budget if you’re trying to stick to $5,000 a month. Instead, consider looking for a place in suburbs like Newtown, Johnsonville, or Hataitai. These areas are still close to the city center and have good public transport connections, but the rent is generally more affordable.In terms of housing, you might have to settle for a smaller apartment or a shared house, rather than a large, modern apartment in the city center. This will help you save on rent, which can be quite high in Wellington. You can expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,000 per month for a decent two-bedroom apartment in a more affordable neighborhood.When it comes to entertainment and dining out, you might have to be a bit more selective. Wellington has a great food scene, but eating out at fancy restaurants can quickly add up. Instead, try exploring some of the more affordable eateries and cafes around the city. There are also plenty of free or low-cost activities to do in Wellington, like visiting the Te Papa museum, going for walks along the waterfront, or exploring the many parks and nature reserves in the area.Transportation costs can also be kept low by using public transport or walking instead of relying on a car. Wellington has a good public transport system, and many parts of the city are easily walkable.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Wellington is definitely achievable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and entertainment. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood and being selective with your spending, you can still enjoy a great quality of life in this beautiful city,” commented an expat living in Wellington.
