NZ tourists keep health coverage under new transtasman agreement

By COLIN MOORE

The new social security arrangements between New Zealand and Australia have not affected reciprocal health benefits for New Zealand tourists.

Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Work and Income New Zealand, say nothing has changed for New Zealand travellers.

Some readers, and even travel agents, have been confused by proposed changes to reciprocal welfare benefits that Australian Prime Minister John Howard announced during his visit in February.

There are even rumours of signs appearing in Australian airports warning that there is no free access to that country's public hospitals.

Travel can assure readers that any such signs do not apply to New Zealand tourists who need emergency medical treatment.

Philip McKinstry, claims manager for HIH Travel Insurance, says New Zealanders visiting Australia are still entitled to free emergency medical treatment in the public health system, just as Australians visiting New Zealand are covered for emergency hospitalisation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirms that there has been no change to the reciprocal arrangements for emergency medical treatment.

"Get seriously injured in a car accident and you will be looked after by the Australian public health system, just as an Australian visitor would be looked after here," says a ministry spokesperson.

Because reciprocity applies only to emergency treatment, prudent travellers should still consider the wisdom of travel insurance.