Having a baby in New Zealand as a non-resident

If you're planning to move to New Zealand from the UK and considering starting a family, you might be wondering about the costs of pregnancy and childbirth there. New Zealand offers a safe environment and a reliable healthcare system, but it's important to understand how maternity care works and what expenses you might encounter before deciding where to give birth.

So, how much does having a baby in New Zealand as a non-resident cost? In this guide, we’ll break down hospital fees, prenatal care and all the key expenses.

And if you need a cost-effective way to manage your money across borders, check out the Wise account from the money services provider Wise. It’s not a bank account but offers some similar features, and your money is safeguarded.

Over 12.8 million people worldwide use Wise to send, spend and convert money in 40+ currencies – for low, transparent fees* and no-markup exchange rates close to what you can see on Google. Plus, you’ll get dedicated support and volume discounts when sending large amounts.

Learn more about the Wise account ➡️

Healthcare in New Zealand

Public healthcare in New Zealand is generally available only to citizens and permanent residents. However, people with a work visa that is valid for two years or longer may also be eligible.¹

If you’re having a baby in New Zealand as a non-resident, there are other ways to be covered. New Zealand and the UK have a reciprocal health agreement, which means you might be able to access essential maternity care, including delivery and postnatal services. However, because reciprocal agreements only apply to temporary visitors, you’ll need to meet additional criteria to receive fully funded lead maternity carer (LMC) services.²

Your partner’s residency status can also affect your eligibility for public healthcare. For example, if your spouse, civil union partner or de facto partner is a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, you’ll be entitled to free or subsidised maternity services. This also applies if your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident intending to live in New Zealand or if they hold a work visa or interim visa.²

HIV-infected pregnant women in New Zealand have free access to multiple services regardless of their immigration status. This includes delivery, as well as prenatal and postnatal care.²

Overview of costs for having a baby in New Zealand

Here's a cost overview for having a baby in New Zealand:

Keep in mind that these are only estimates and it’s best to consult healthcare providers directly for the most up-to-date information.

Cost of prenatal care in New Zealand

If you meet the eligibility criteria mentioned above, most maternity care will be free, including prenatal services. However, you may need to pay for certain extras like some prenatal or childbirth preparation classes and ultrasound scans. Any tests done in private laboratories will be an additional charge too.²

People on a temporary visa who aren't eligible for public healthcare must show they have at least $9,000 available to cover medical expenses.³

Prices at private hospitals can vary, and in some districts, local health authorities may cover all additional charges. On average, ultrasound scans typically cost between $30 and $165.⁴

How much does it cost to have a baby in New Zealand through IVF?

The New Zealand government provides public funding for fertility treatments to those who meet certain criteria. Unfortunately, both you and your partner must be New Zealand citizens or have the right to live in the country for at least two years, meaning non-residents won’t qualify.⁵

If you choose to go private, the cost isn’t fixed and will vary depending on your personal situation. On average, one IVF cycle can cost between $11,500 and $17,000, including medication.⁶

Cost of delivering a baby in New Zealand

Similar to prenatal care, if you don't fall into one of the exempt categories, you’ll need to pay childbirth costs as well. If you qualify for public healthcare through your partner or work visa, you won’t pay any delivery costs.²

Delivery costs for non-residents at Birthcare Auckland Hospital are around $3,300 for an uncomplicated birth. You'll need to pay 50% of the fee upfront.⁷

Some hospitals offer packages for women who aren't eligible for free maternity care, so you won’t have to pay for delivery separately. For example, at Origins Clinic in Auckland, the $8,000 maternity care package includes appointments with your obstetrician, 24/7 access to an on-call doctor, childbirth and postnatal care with a midwife.⁸

Cost of postnatal care in New Zealand

After giving birth, you’ll have some additional expenses, including hospital stay fees and visits to the paediatrician. While room costs vary between hospitals, you can get a general idea from the daily rates at Birthcare Auckland Hospital. A standard room costs close to $1,000, a private room is $1,200 and a premium room is just over $1,400.⁷

Those who don’t qualify for free maternity care will need to take their baby to a private paediatrician. Appointments typically cost between $150 and $200, although private health insurance may help reduce these costs.⁷

Costs to expect once your baby is home

Having a child can be expensive, particularly in the early stages when you need to purchase furniture and other essentials. While your spending will depend on your budget and habits, the Bank of New Zealand provides some helpful estimates.

On average, items like a cot, mattress and baby monitor will cost around $1,300. Food expenses, including breastfeeding gear, bibs and utensils, can total about $1,500 per year. Nappies typically cost around $1,750 annually, while the price of childcare can go up to $8,750.⁹

Parents on a medium budget in New Zealand are estimated to spend around $300 per week on their child, totaling over $15,000 a year. For babies aged one to three, the average weekly costs rise to nearly $400.⁹

Wise – An international account for managing money in New Zealand

Now that you know which costs to expect when having a baby in New Zealand, you might need a smart way to manage your money between the UK and New Zealand. The Wise account could be a perfect fit.

With the Wise account, you can send, spend, hold and convert money in 40+ currencies, for low, transparent fees* and mid-market exchange rates close to what you see on Google.

You can also get a Wise card for a one-time fee of £7 (or the Wise virtual card for £0) to spend like a local in 150+ countries. This clever card automatically converts your pounds to the local currency whenever you spend, only adding a tiny, upfront currency conversion fee* – or it’s fee-free if you already have the local currency in your Wise account.

Sign up with Wise for free 🚀

**Capital at risk. In the UK, Interest and Stocks are provided by Wise Assets — this is the trading name of Wise Assets UK Ltd, a subsidiary of Wise. Wise Assets UK Ltd is authorised as an investment firm and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our FCA number is 839689. We do not give investment advice, and you may be subject to pay tax. If you're not sure, seek qualified advice. You can find more information about the funds on our website.

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 09-Apr-2025