There was a particular focus on pregnant women as they were at higher risk of complications to both the mother and baby.
The practices also delivered influenza immunisations to rest home facilities in the Wairarapa region.
Compass Health and the Wairarapa District Health Board offered the vaccine free to staff to protect them and decrease the risk of spreading the virus to patients, Ms Tyacke said.
Health Minister Tony Ryall said the goal this year is to vaccinate 1.2 million people. "Around 400 New Zealanders die, directly or indirectly, each year from influenza. Last year the disease put more than a thousand people in hospital and nearly 50,000 people visited their GP with influenza-like illness."
Last year more than one million New Zealanders had a flu vaccination - about 23 per cent of the population.
Wellingtonian Mark McIlroy is encouraging people to get immunised after the death of his wife Catherine.
The 49-year-old was fit and healthy before being struck down by the influenza virus last July. She died within five days of showing symptoms.
Although some influenza symptoms are the same as a bad cold, the virus is usually much more severe.
Symptoms include a cough, headache, fever or chills, body aches and pains, fatigue and generally feeling miserable.
Stop the spread of influenza:
If you are unwell, stay at home until you are better.
Wash your hands regularly or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Don't share drinks.
Avoid crowded places.
