Immunisations on the schedule are free for children under 18

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 if you, or your child, is considered high-risk, or if you’re travelling overseas. Some of these vaccines you may need to pay for.

National Immunisation Schedule (internal link)


Tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough vaccine (Boostrix)

The tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough vaccine is offered to children for free from when they are 11 years old.

It’s available through some schools for students in Year 7. Information about the immunisations and consent forms are provided by the school for the parent or caregiver to sign.

If your school is not offering immunisations, or your child has missed out for any reason, you can take them to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider for their vaccinations. 

Tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough vaccine (Boostrix) (internal link)

Video: Year 7 immunisation: Protect against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough

HPV immunisation

Although HPV immunisation is provided through most participating schools in Year 7 or Year 8 it is free for everyone aged 9 to 26 years, including non-residents under 18 years old.

  • Tamariki aged 9 to 14 years old need 2 doses. The second dose is given at least 6 months after the first dose.
  • Rangatahi (young people) from age 15 years old need 3 doses. These are given over 6 months.

HPV immunisation (internal link)

Video: Year 8 immunisation: Protection against HPV

Other immunisations for this age group

To provide the best protection for your tamariki, make sure they’re also up to date with the following immunisations.

  • Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) – if your child has not already received 2 doses
  • COVID-19  ages 12 years old and over are eligible for 2 doses, and ages 16 and over are eligible for 2 doses and a booster
  • Annual flu vaccine – recommended for everyone over 6 months old. Free for children under 12 years old, and older children with certain health conditions
  • Meningococcal  free for rangatahi (young people) aged 13 to 25 in close-living situations (like boarding schools or tertiary hostels and halls of residence).

Booking an immunisation appointment (internal link)

Catching up on missed vaccinations is easy

If your child has missed a vaccination, it's okay. Rangatahi (young people) can catch up on most vaccinations. If your child has missed a school vaccination, contact your school to see if there is a catch-up vaccination day.

It is particularly important for rangatahi to be up to date with 2 doses of the measles vaccine.

For advice, talk to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or trusted healthcare provider.


Extra vaccines for rangatahi

Extra free immunisations are available for those at high-risk, and some vaccines can also be purchased for extra protection and for overseas travel.

Extra vaccines for tamariki and adults (internal link)