Why health insurance matters – especially this winter

July in New Zealand is prime time for colds, flus and all the bugs in between. While a warm cuppa and woolly socks can help with the sniffles, when it comes to protecting your long-term health and financial wellbeing – nothing beats being prepared. That’s where health insurance steps in.

What is health insurance and why does it matter?

Health insurance helps cover the costs of medical care, from everyday health concerns to more serious illnesses and surgeries. It gives you faster access to private healthcare, so you’re not stuck on public waitlists or left worrying about how to pay for unexpected treatments.

It is not just for those already managing health issues. In fact, it’s most valuable when you’re young and healthy. Why? Because you’re more likely to get better premiums and avoid exclusions down the line. You’re essentially locking in protection before life throws any curveballs. Think of it as protecting future you, before future you needs it.

The benefits of having health insurance

• A cover tailored to your needs: Everyone’s health situation is different – that’s why it pays to have a policy that fits your life now, with flexibility for the future. A financial adviser can help you compare options, cut through the fine print, and find cover that suits you and your family.
• Faster treatment, when it matters most: If you’ve ever waited months for a specialist appointment or surgery through the public system, you’ll know that time isn’t always on your side. Health insurance gives you more control over when and where you’re treated, so you’re not left crossing your fingers and refreshing your inbox.
• It’s not just about the big stuff: We often think of health insurance as something for serious illnesses or major surgeries, but it can also help with more everyday health concerns, like specialist visits, diagnostic tests (like MRIs or X-rays), and minor procedures that can still come with a big bill. Without health insurance, you might delay care or avoid it altogether because of cost, and that can lead to bigger issues later down the line.
• Protect your health and your wallet: Even one unexpected health hiccup can throw your budget out of whack. Health insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re supported when the unforeseen happens. In fact, we’ve helped our clients claim over $15 million in medical costs with AIA Health in the last 12 months, real support when it matters most, helping them avoid financial stress. With the right cover, you’re not choosing between your savings and your health, you’re protecting both.

What about Pharmac vs non-Pharmac cover?

Many New Zealanders don’t realise that not all medications are funded by Pharmac (the government agency that decides which treatments get publicly subsidised). Some of the most cutting-edge or effective treatments might fall outside this funding, and that’s where non-Pharmac cover becomes crucial. It helps ensure you can access those high-cost medicines if you ever need them, without the financial stress.

Get rewarded for staying healthy

Some health insurance providers offer wellness programmes designed to encourage healthier habits – and reward you along the way.

For example, AIA Vitality a science-backed wellness programme that rewards you for making healthier choices. Whether it’s hitting your step goal or going for a check-up, you can earn rewards like discounted flights, vouchers, and even premium discounts. Staying healthy has never looked so good.

Act this winter

Health insurance isn’t just about planning for the worst, it’s about giving yourself the best chance to live well, recover faster, and protect what matters the most.

If you don’t have cover or haven’t reviewed your policy recently, now’s the time to act.

Our financial advisers will help you

Understand your options, help you find a policy that suits your life now and, in the future, and explain the fine print so you know exactly what you’re covered for.

Don’t wait for a health scare to make a plan. Complete the form below to speak with a financial adviser about your health insurance options and how we can help protect what matters most.