i'm going to work in new zealand in september, will I need to take out personal health insurance out there?

Answer 1

You can but it may not be necessary. There is automatic coverage if you hurt yourself at work, ACC. Otherwise you can take out a private policy but it is not required by most employers.

Answer 2

Everybody in NZ, even visitors from overseas, gets emergency medical treatment, even if they can't afford to pay for it. But elective treatment would cost you. Medical treatment here is reasonably priced. Prescription medication is subsidised. But my advice is to take out medical insurance. It should be cheaper than for most developed countries.