How to Switch Health Insurance in NZ Without Losing Cover

Many New Zealanders stay with the same health insurer for years, even when better options are available, because they worry about losing their no-claims history or having new exclusions applied. Here's how to switch safely.

Why People Switch Health Insurers

- Premium increases: Annual increases of 8–12% add up over time - Better coverage: Another insurer may offer better benefits for the same price - Changed circumstances: Life events (marriage, children, retirement) may mean your current policy no longer fits - Service issues: Claim disputes or poor customer service

The Risks of Switching

The main risk is losing the right to claim for pre-existing conditions that may currently be covered. When you switch, your new insurer may:

• ✓Apply new exclusions to conditions you've developed since taking out your original policy
• ✓Restart waiting periods for certain benefits

The "Transfer of Cover" Option

Most NZ health insurers offer a transfer of cover or continuity of cover option. This means:

• ✓Pre-existing exclusions from your old policy are maintained (but no new ones are added)
• ✓You don't restart waiting periods
• ✓Your no-claims history may be recognised

This is only available if you switch to a comparable policy and don't have a gap in cover.

Step-by-Step: How to Switch Safely

1. Get quotes from multiple insurers with a licensed adviser 2. Request a transfer of cover application — don't just apply as a new customer 3. Don't cancel your old policy until your new one is confirmed in writing 4. Check the effective dates — ensure there's no gap in cover 5. Review your new policy document carefully before cancelling old cover

Using an Adviser

A licensed health insurance adviser can manage the entire switch process for you — at no cost to you. They have direct relationships with all major insurers and can negotiate the best terms.