Nelson Tasman Settlement Support

A Partnership between Department of Labour and Nelson City Council

General practitioners

The region has a good network of General Practitioners (GPs) who provide a wide variety of services from immunisation programmes, management of minor accidents and injuries, to care of people with terminal illnesses. Most people in the Nelson area are enrolled with a GP, allowing them to access lower fees and medication charges for groups such as children and the elderly.

Finding a Doctor

For regular health and medical care you must register the whole family with a GP (General Practitioner or Doctor.) To find a GP in your area check the green pages in the phone book or see www.nelsonpho.org.nz for list of GPs taking new patients and the fees each GP practice charges. Explain to any health professional that you visit that you are new to the area or to New Zealand, and need help getting health services.

A few facts to keep in mind:

  • You need to make an appointment to see a doctor.
  • It costs to see a doctor - ask how much it will cost.

Nelson Bays Public Health Organisation's website will direct you to a list of general practitioners.

Pregnancy

Speak to your doctor or call the maternity department at Nelson Hospital for advice Tel: 546 1856, or locate a midwife through the telephone directory.

Babies and children

Babies and children under six are entitled to free GP visits (check whether your GP charges).  Under fives are also entitled to several free health and development checks under the national Well Child scheme.

For more information on local parenting support networks and The Plunket Child Service (New Zealand’s Well Child service), phone 03 539 4323.

Interpreter services

Doctors in the Nelson/Tasman region have access to The Office of Ethnic Affairs Language Line. If an interpreter is needed at a doctor’s visit please talk to the doctor about this.