Free resources

05 Mar 2024

Imagine being in need of a life-saving or life-extending drug that could set you back hundreds of thousands of dollars a year because it wasn’t government funded. The reality is that many Kiwis face challenges like this every year.

06 Nov 2023

Grumpy. Moody. Emotional. How often would you use these terms to describe your teenager? It’s understandable - raising a teen is no easy feat!

09 May 2022

A guide to getting the flu vaccine in 2022.

18 Feb 2022

Dealing with any kind of loss or grief is never easy – especially for a child or teen when emotions can run particularly high. And as a parent, supporting your child through these difficult times can prove to be one of the biggest challenges.

28 Jan 2022

No one should have to choose between possible financial hardship and potentially life-saving medical treatment, but that’s the decision currently facing thousands of Kiwis who need access to medications that are not funded by PHARMAC.

18 Oct 2021

Prioritising the health and wellbeing of your employees means giving them peace of mind that they’ll be covered even when the worst happens. To help you get your head around the PHARMAC system, and how you can make sure your team is covered, check out our Q&A here.

11 Aug 2021

Private health insurance is known to take care of major medical expenses and help cut down on wait times for treatments and consultations, but with nib’s health select insurance policies*, you could be covered for so much more. To help you get up to speed, we’ve highlighted six lesser-known benefits* that make health insurance worth every cent when you come on board with us!

16 Apr 2021

We need vaccines to help bring the COVID-19 pandemic under control and get us back to a new normal, but you might have some questions about it. With vaccinations already being rolled out in New Zealand, we aim to answer your most common questions about the COVID-19 vaccine.

30 May 2019

Whether you have health insurance for everyday things that help you stay healthy, like seeing the dentist or physio, or have more comprehensive hospital cover for ‘just in case’, it’s good to know that with nib, your health cover is there when you need it. So if you do need to use your cover, we’re glad we can support your better health – and we want to make it easy for you to claim (it’s how it should be).

16 Apr 2024

If you’ve been dealing with some aches and pains - whether that’s a sore back caused by working from home or a pulled hamstring after exercising - it may be time for you to see a health professional to get it sorted. But when you’ve got different recommendations thrown your way, how do you know which option is best to help manage your condition?

16 Apr 2024

Prioritising healthy habits and ways of living can boost our immunity and overall wellbeing. Here are our top six tips for healthy living and immunity boosting in the winter months.

27 Mar 2024

A thriving workforce isn't just about meeting deadlines and achieving targets; it's about fostering a culture of wellbeing that supports employees in their personal and professional lives. That’s why we’ve put together a handy Wellbeing Calendar to help you take a proactive approach to workplace wellness.

13 Dec 2023

Our resident parenting expert and neuroscience educator, Nathan Wallis, explains what you need to know about raising neurodivergent children and offers some helpful tips for raising and empowering them.

06 Nov 2023

Our resident parenting expert and neuroscience educator, Nathan Wallis, explains how parents can work with their children and teens to set boundaries.

10 Oct 2023

As a parent it can be daunting to help your child navigate the big emotions that come with mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Our resident parenting expert and neuroscience educator, Nathan Wallis, explains how to identify the warning signs of anxiety and depression in your children, and how to best support them while looking after yourself too.

04 Oct 2023

Our recent State of the Nation Parenting Survey found that a whopping​ 93% of households are facing financial stressors, and that for ​nearly half of all parents surveyed, the primary main cause of household stress is financial uncertainty. Nathan Wallis, nib parenting expert share's his tips on navigating mental health during the cost of living crisis.

21 Sep 2023

Today, more and more people are living in a stressed state while trying to meet the demands of modern life. But did you know that there are ways you can calm your nervous system and avoid unnecessary stress, burnout, and even long-term health issues?

05 May 2023

A study from nib New Zealand and NeilsonIQ, found that 37% of parents say it’s hard to motivate their kids to be active. Parents might be wondering what resources are available to give them ideas for activities.

20 Mar 2023

Helen Cross, aka ‘The Health Engineer’ talks about her top tips for sleep, recovery and stress management with the nib Blues.

15 Dec 2022

Whatever your skin colour, you need to protect yourself from the sun.

15 Dec 2022

Whilst there isn’t any hard evidence to prove we’re more likely to get sick on holiday, chances are it has happened to you, or at the very least to one of your friends or family members.

27 Jul 2022

Are you struggling to cope with changing life circumstances? nib mental health nurse, Jo Baja, shares top tips for helping you feel more Zen in as little as five minutes!

04 Mar 2021

If you’ve ever wondered how much eye treatments cost in New Zealand - we’ve got you! Check out this article where we break down the costs, plus a guide on when you and your family should have your eyes checked.

20 Feb 2019

While ageing is inevitable, it doesn’t need to be a negative thing. By adopting healthy habits, being aware of the changes that occur in our bodies and acting upon them, most of us have the power to age healthily.

12 Apr 2018

Glasses are a popular fashion accessory these days, but most people wear them to see clearly rather than look trendy. Ignoring the warning signs that you may need glasses isn’t a good idea. You could end up causing damage to your eyes or injuring yourself and others because you can’t see properly.

30 Oct 2023

Breast cancer is something everyone should check for, regardless of age or gender. It’s the most common cancer for Kiwi women, affecting one in nine over their lifetime.

23 Oct 2019

Looking for ways to make everyday life a little less tricky and your daily routines simpler? These popular mobile apps could be just what you need.

17 Oct 2018

Get our clever cost-cutting fact sheet to help you unlock the healthy savings on your weekly food spend. With some crafty cutbacks we know you can save you and your family over $5,500 per year and feel all the better for it. Just think what you could do with that little windfall.

25 Sep 2018

It’s the age old dilemma; you want to live life large, but you simply don’t have the budget for a first-class flight to Europe. At nib, we believe that travel is good for the soul, so we’ve put together a Kiwi’s ultimate bucket list.

13 Apr 2022

Championing workforce wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do, it can also be a good formula for business success. Read some of the ways that health insurance could positively affect your business, as well as the overall health and wellbeing of your employees!

03 Sep 2018

Did you know that New Zealand has the third highest obesity rate in the OECD? If we want to reduce this rate, we need to be taking proactive steps to look after our health. Eating the right foods, getting enough exercise and taking care of our mental wellbeing should be a central part of our daily routines.

16 Apr 2024

In New Zealand, basic dental care is available free-of-charge for eligible children up to the age of 18. This helps set the stage for positive habits into adulthood, encouraging people to take a proactive approach to oral health by driving home the importance of looking after your teeth. Unfortunately, the cost of dental treatment for adults in New Zealand can be prohibitive for a lot of people, and many Kiwis opt to put up with bad (and painful) teeth rather than pay to visit a dentist.

31 Jul 2020

In a world where you turn to Google for almost everything, going online for your prescription medicine seems only natural.

23 Oct 2019

Jill’s is not the only story that will inspire you to make the switch to an online direct delivery pharmacy service.

27 Jun 2019

If you only look at your nib health cover when you have to make a medical or hospital claim, you could be missing out.

15 May 2019

Many people believe that having a pre-existing medical condition will mean you either can’t get health insurance or that you’ll pay huge premiums. But the good news is, this isn’t the case.

18 Dec 2018

As the revolutionary technology in our healthcare system continues to improve efficiency and accuracy for patients, it’s only fitting that the home first aid kit tucked away in the cupboard above the fridge has a modern makeover too. Let’s take a peek inside the first aid kit of the future.

18 Dec 2018

Robot-assisted surgery has already opened up a realm of possibilities in New Zealand. We look into the rise of automation in the operating theatre and ask the question - will these mechanical surgeons ever be able to work as well as a human surgeon?

10 Dec 2018

Whether you live down the street from a doctor or you’re miles away, without having to leave home, you can now attend an appointment via videoconferencing thanks to telehealth. Telehealth is a way you can get advice, discuss health concerns and even receive a prescription or sick note from a health professional without the burden of regular travel - which can be difficult, especially for those living in rural areas.

18 Jul 2018

For any health-related concern, just ask Dr Google, right? But with the wealth of information available on the internet, finding what is relevant and (most importantly) factually correct can be difficult. From chicken pox to haemorrhoids, we’ve summarised everything you need to know about conditions commonly searched for online by New Zealanders. Read on for what to look out for and what you should do if you think you are coming down with something.

04 Jul 2018

If you’re thinking about private health insurance, but aren’t sure whether you really need it right now, here are five things you might want to consider.

05 Apr 2023

12 months complementary cover to support your wellbeing, for members with an eligible Ultimate Health or Ultimate Health Max policy.

14 Dec 2022

We’re here to support you during the holiday period. You can get in contact with us here and the team will be available to help during the following operating hours.

03 Nov 2021

In these uncertain times, our priority is making sure our members continue to stay safe and healthy by being here to support you. To assist you, we’ve put together some frequently asked questions.

04 Dec 2020

In this latest edition of nib Go! Magazine, we explore the many ways organisations have adapted to support their new-look flexible workforce – delving into the WFH debate, providing tips to promote shift worker wellbeing, and looking at the changing face of workforce management.

20 Feb 2019

From parenting books to friends and family, everywhere you turn there are dos and don’ts around pregnancy and newborns.

18 Dec 2018

Leave the dentist’s chair and the pain you feel can double by the time you hit reception. That filling costs how much?! Many have to grit their teeth at the sight of whopping dentist bills, but thanks to nib, preserving your pearly whites doesn’t have to break the bank.

07 Nov 2018

New to New Zealand and a little befuddled by the medical system? Or not sure who to call or where to go when feeling unwell? Here's what you need to know.

07 Nov 2018

It’s the question we’ve all been asked at one time or another when picking up medicine at the local pharmacist. While many of us pick the cheaper generic option, you’ve probably wondered whether there really is a difference between the branded and generic versions.

07 Nov 2018

Ever wondered about the cost of major surgery and waiting times to see a surgeon in NZ?

06 Sep 2018

If you’re a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand then you’re eligible for a range of publicly funded healthcare services.

24 Aug 2018

A recent nationwide health study found that around one in eight children (12%) aged two-14 years are obese, and a further 21% are overweight. And young Kiwi kids aren’t the only concern – the same study found a shocking 32% of Kiwis over the age of 15 are obese, and a further 34% are overweight.

24 Jul 2018

In New Zealand basic dental care is free and available up until the age of 18 for eligible children. This can set the stage for adults to have a healthy relationship with their dentist and drives home the importance of looking after your teeth.

04 Jul 2018

There are heaps of moments that make life incredible - like heading off overseas to fill your Instagram with travel pics, getting your mates together for a road trip, or discovering that amazing new dumpling place or coffee spot before anybody else. But to make time for the fun to happen, you need to sort out your life-admin – which is why we’ve put together six #adulting tips to help:

04 Jul 2018

Getting the private health insurance cover you and your family need isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ kind of thing. By fine-tuning your cover to suit your circumstances, you can make private health insurance as effective and affordable as possible. First though, it pays to ask yourself a few key questions. Like:

03 Jul 2025

With different ages, tastes and tempers, maintaining a healthy diet as a family can feel like an uphill battle. Add busy work schedules, the rising cost of groceries, and the temptation of fast foods to the mix and it almost feels impossible! But making small, intentional changes to the way you approach food can help you nourish your family without breaking the bank.

03 Jun 2025

Between work, family, social commitments, and life admin, it can feel impossible to squeeze in exercise as an adult. And when social media is full of people spending hours at the gym or on epic hikes, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling short. But in reality, you don’t need to spend every waking minute working out to improve your overall health. Getting active can: ● Lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and some cancers ● Improve heart, lung, and muscle health ● Help manage anxiety, depression, and stress Experts say you only need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week – that’s a little over 20 minutes a day! So, how do you make it work in a packed schedule? Here are five simple ways to fit exercise into your routine.

10 Mar 2025

Ever wake up feeling sluggish, irritable, or forgetful after a rough night’s sleep? Sleep isn’t just about rest - it’s when your body restores itself, sharpens your brain, and keeps your mood in check. Between work, family, and social life, it’s easy to cut corners on sleep. But regularly skimping on quality rest can raise your risk of serious health issues like heart disease, obesity, and stroke.

28 Feb 2025

Our hearing is a vital part of how we experience the world, but it’s easy to take it for granted. Regular hearing checks are essential for maintaining not just our auditory health but our overall wellbeing. Let's explore why staying on top of your hearing checks can help catch potential issues early and ensure timely treatment.

25 Feb 2025

Everyday, someone in New Zealand hears the life-changing words: “You have ovarian cancer.” As the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death amongst women, ovarian cancer claims more lives than cervical, uterine, vulval, and vaginal cancers combined. Let’s get familiar with what ovarian cancer is, the signs to look out for, and treatment options.

31 Jan 2025

Six ways you can benefit from Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture

31 Jan 2025

Selecting ​​Life and Living insurance cover might feel like a daunting task – it’s no small decision! But learning more about what your options are, how it could benefit you, and what to do next is a great first step. While no one knows what tomorrow will bring, it can be easier when you have the right plans in place.

31 Jan 2025

Life is full of twists and turns, and having a plan in place means you can face those moments with confidence. But sometimes it can be tricky to know when and where to start. ​I​f you’re going through any major life changes, now might be the perfect time to think about Life and Living insurance.

31 Jan 2025

Dealing with perimenopause and menopause ​​​​can sometimes feel overwhelming, and, many women end up suffering in silence. But understanding these stages and their symptoms is the key to managing them well.

17 Sep 2024

Our​ children​​ are dealing with a truckload of big emotions. For those struggling with anxiety or other mental health issues, this buildup can sometimes lead to an anxiety attack, AKA a panic attack. When your child is having a panic attack, you don’t need to feel helpless in the moment. There are ways you can support them and make them feel heard, loved, and eased out of their overwhelmed state. Let’s take a closer look at panic attacks and some practical ways you can help your child navigate them.

11 Sep 2024

ADHD is more common than you may think. In New Zealand, it's estimated that 280,000 people have ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While it’s believed 5-8% of children and adolescents globally are living with ADHD, adults are more likely to be undiagnosed.

29 Jul 2024

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, but did you know it's also integral to your overall health and wellness? Teeth play a critical role in our daily lives, helping us chew and digest food, speak clearly, and give our face its shape. A healthy smile can be a huge confidence booster. But beyond just looks, teeth are an essential part of the human body that must be looked after.

05 Jun 2024

Did you know that prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in New Zealand affecting roughly 4,000 men a year? In fact, more than 700 men die of prostate cancer each year, making it the second leading cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer.

30 May 2024

Today, nine New Zealand women, on average, will receive news that they have breast cancer. It’s the most common cancer for Kiwi women. Here's what you need to know about breast cancer checks and what to do if you feel a possible breast cancer lump.

30 May 2024

Skin cancer has one of the highest global incidences of any form of cancer, with New Zealand clocking the highest rates of melanoma in the world. But this doesn’t mean we can’t keep on enjoying the Kiwi sun we know and love – it means it's even more important to know what skin cancer is, the signs to look out for, be sun smart and importantly, ensure you have regular skin checks.

28 May 2024

Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment can be a daunting journey, so having a robust support system can make all the difference. nib extends a helping hand to its members through one of its dedicated Health Management Programmes, nib Cancer Care.

28 May 2024

Each year, more than 1,200 Kiwis die from bowel cancer and over 3,000 are diagnosed with it. It’s the second most common cause of cancer deaths in New Zealand and we have one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world. Getting screened early is the key.

13 May 2024

Making changes that can help to improve your mental wellbeing often feels like climbing a mountain, when in reality, small changes done consistently can be incredibly effective. Here are five simple tips that you can action today, to help improve your overall mental wellbeing.

13 May 2024

Let’s talk about something that affects more of us than we realise: anxiety. You know that feeling of worry and fear that sometimes creeps in when you think about a certain moment or thing? It’s most annoying when it creeps into things that you know you don’t need to worry about but still are! There are lots of ways to help manage feelings of anxiety but if these feelings are more intense than normal or persistent, it might be time to seek professional help.

23 Apr 2024

Functional nutrition and lifestyle practitioner, Helen Cross knows what it’s like to live with the painful symptoms of endometriosis. Helen decided to take a more holistic approach, making changes to her diet and lifestyle to help manage the chronic condition. She transformed her health and found a passion for empowering women to heal themselves and improve their quality of life.

09 Apr 2024

Nearly 1 in 10 Kiwi women will have endometriosis, but many women do not know the difference between normal menstrual discomfort and the painful symptoms of endometriosis.

25 Mar 2024

Through the nib Women’s Wellness programme Helen Cross has helped many women with endometriosis reduce their pain and improve their quality of life. Read all about Helen's endometriosis journey and how the nib Women's Wellness programme can help women with endometriosis.

14 Dec 2023

Struggling to spend quality time with kids? Parenting expert Nathan Wallis shares tips on how working parents can fit in more one on one time with kids.

24 Nov 2023

With bullying increasingly happening behind a screen , it can be even more difficult to keep track of. In fact, our nib 2021 State of the Nation Parenting Survey uncovered that 68% of Kiwi parents were concerned about their child being a victim of online bullying, and 50% were concerned about their child being a perpetrator.

24 Aug 2023

When nib member, Katrina was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, she wasn’t sure where to turn. Our Wellness Coaches offered her personalised care and support to guide her through her health journey.

24 Apr 2023

We all know that people are stretched for time these days, especially parents juggling the demands of working plus full-time parenting.

12 Apr 2023

54% of kids are doing less than the recommended one hour a day of activity. So, how can parents support their kids to be more active?

31 Mar 2023

Spending time away from devices and doing other mentally or physically enriching activities is super important for children’s development and wellbeing.

17 Feb 2023

Our resident parenting expert Nathan Wallis shares practical advise to parents on the complexities of the teenage brain.

16 Jan 2023

The 2022 nib State of the Nation Parenting Survey revealed that over half (54%) of Kiwi parents are concerned about their children’s mental health, while a quarter (26%) say their children struggle with regulating their emotions. Just as adults find it tricky navigating their emotions, our tamariki need some extra guidance too.

16 Dec 2022

Slathering your child with sunscreen and popping on a hat is standard practice for many parents. But, do your children wear sunglasses and have you ever wondered if they need to?

16 Nov 2022

Parenting expert, Nathan Wallis reveals the best ways to maintain your independence and identity while navigating parenthood.

17 Dec 2021

Raising healthy children is a top priority for any parent. But when it comes to figuring out if your child has any health or developmental issues, it can be stressful if you’re not sure what signs to look out for.

13 May 2021

Find out why it’s not just about what your child learns, but how they learn, plus some top tips from nib parenting expert, Nathan Wallis

15 Jan 2021

Technology, social media and digital devices are now part of our everyday lives – and during a year which saw us spending more time indoors and juggling working from home with parenting, you may have found yourself leaning on them more than usual to keep your kids occupied. For anyone who has struggled with the impact these technologies have on their children, it may be welcome news to know you’re not alone.

03 Dec 2020

If you’ve ever felt concern over your children’s sleeping patterns or habits, you’re not alone. Our second annual State of the Nation Parenting Survey found sleep to be one of the top three health concerns Kiwi parents have for their children, with 31% of respondents having experienced worry over issues such as kids getting too much or too little sleep, or having disrupted sleeping patterns.

27 Nov 2020

The first 1,000 days of existence (from conception to a child’s second birthday) have a large impact on a child’s development. In the early days, a baby’s genes interact with the environment to determine what kind of brain is needed for the rest of their life. To maximise the first 1,000 days of your child’s life and give them the best foundations for their future, here are my top parenting tips:

16 Nov 2020

Assignments, exams and assessments are all part and parcel of school life, but for many children they can be a massive cause of stress and anxiety. And for those coming up to formal exams this month, in the wake of a highly unusual and disrupted 2020 school year, this stress may be even more acute.

16 Nov 2020

78% of parents surveyed indicate their children experienced at least one change in behaviour or health that lasted two weeks or longer in 2020. The COVID-19 lockdowns will have seen many routines and rituals be interrupted this year. Routines offer predictability, which is vitally important to children’s mental health and wellbeing – so when routines are disturbed, it can have a real impact on their behaviour.

06 Oct 2020

Nathan Wallis, nib parenting expert, explains how a child’s attitude to learning underpins their future outcomes and how this can be developed through play based learning.

14 Aug 2020

As Kiwi families face life in lockdown again, some parents and caregivers may be experiencing new (or familiar!) challenges with their tamariki (children). Our parenting expert Nathan Wallis shares his advice on how to tackle the most common issues.

08 Jul 2019

“Mental health” is among New Zealand parents’ biggest concerns. This article highlights many of the resources available.

08 Jul 2019

Parenting can often be a 24/7 job. So, when you have a multitude of other things to juggle (whether that's work, friends, health and fitness, or “me time”) on top of spending time with the kids, how does that impact our perceptions of how well we’re parenting?

25 Jun 2019

When it comes to being a first-time parent, the age-old adage ‘expect the unexpected’ probably sums it up best. While we’re all different and everyone eventually develops their own style of parenting, there’s one thing all parents have in common – when the baby first arrives, it’s all new for both of you.

13 Mar 2019

Ticking off developmental milestones is exciting for every parent. But as the dreaded teenage years start to approach, it’s natural to start feeling a little trepidation.

07 Nov 2018

Watching children develop has got to be one of the wonders of parenthood. From the first smile, to those initial steps and starting school, let’s explore some key milestones typical of life’s first decade.

17 Oct 2018

Ticking off developmental milestones is an exciting time for any parent. As kids transition from young tweens into teenagers ready for adulthood, there are lots of changes (and perhaps a few challenges) you can expect. Bear in mind, there is no definitive growing-up guideline, and this is just a general outline of a child’s development. For individual advice, consult your local GP.

17 Oct 2018

Planning a family holiday is both exciting and, let’s be honest, difficult. You may want to explore the art museums and historical sites of Europe, while your kids have their hearts set on heading to the Gold Coast and spending every day at a different theme park. That’s why nib has created some suggestions for active family holidays that everyone will love. With incredible experiences close to home as well as once-in-a-lifetime holidays abroad, there’s an option for every family.

17 Oct 2018

Our children come into this life full of hope and infinite promise, but without proper structures in place that help create positive habits for their future, much of that potential can go unfulfilled.