Immunisation for preschoolers
Before your child starts school they should get a free diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio booster immunisation. They’re also eligible for free meningococcal B and flu vaccines. From 5 years old they can get COVID-19 immunisations.
Immunisations on the schedule are free for all tamariki
In Aotearoa New Zealand, we have a National Immunisation Schedule. This lists the vaccines offered to tamariki and adults and the best time to get immunised. All vaccinations on the National Immunisation Schedule are free for children under 18 – it does not matter what their visa or citizenship status is. This includes visitors to Aotearoa New Zealand.
Extra vaccines not on the schedule may also be recommended your tamariki is considered high-risk, or if you’re travelling abroad. Some of these vaccines you may need to pay for.
When to immunise
Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio (booster dose)
When your tamariki turns 4, they are eligible for a booster vaccination that protects against 4 vaccine-preventable diseases.
Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio (booster dose)
Meningococcal B
On 1 March 2023, the meningococcal B vaccine was added to the National Immunisation Schedule. It's free for babies at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months.
Many tamariki under 5 would not have had their 3 doses, so a free catch-up programme is available until 31 August 2025 for tamariki under 5 years old.
Talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider about immunising them.
COVID-19 immunisations
When your tamariki turns 5 years old, they are eligible for free COVID-19 immunisation.
- COVID-19 (2 doses, 8-weeks apart)
Annual flu immunisation
All tamariki aged 6 months to 12 years are eligible for flu immunisation every year. In 2023 this is free.
Extra vaccines for tamariki
Extra free immunisations are available for those at high-risk. Some vaccines can also be purchased for extra protection and for overseas travel.
If an immunisation has been missed – you can catch up
If any immunisations have been missed, it’s OK. You can catch up on most immunisations. For advice, talk to your doctor, nurse, or trusted healthcare professional.
Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio vaccine
This booster vaccination is free for 4 year olds and protects against 4 serious diseases.
COVID-19 vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone aged 5 and over. It protects your child, your whānau, and your community.
Flu vaccine
In 2023, the flu vaccine is free for tamariki aged 6 months to 12 years.
Meningococcal B
Free meningococcal B immunisations for under 5s became available from 1 March 2023.