Immunisation
Te rongoā āraimate
Information about immunisations, including how to get vaccinated and what vaccines you may need at different stages of life.
Why immunisation matters
Immunisation helps protect you, your tamariki and your wider whānau, from diseases that can cause serious illness. Some infections spread quickly, and babies, older people, pregnant people, and anyone with certain health conditions can be hit hardest.
It’s normal to have questions or want to talk things through. Your GP team or practice nurse can explain what a vaccine is for, what side effects to expect, and what’s recommended for your situation, in a way that makes sense for you and your whānau.
When more people in a community are protected, it also helps protect those who are most at risk. That’s one of the reasons immunisation is an important part of prevention.
What vaccines you might need
Different vaccines are recommended at different stages of life. Your practice team can tell you exactly what you or your child is due for based on your age and health.
Infants & Children
0–12 years
- Hepatitis B (for at-risk babies at birth)
- 6-in-1 vaccine (6 weeks, 3 months, 5 months)
- Rotavirus (6 weeks, 3 months)
- Pneumococcal (6 weeks, 5 months, 12 months)
- Meningococcal B (3 months, 5 months, 12 months)
- MMR (12 months, 15 months)
- Chickenpox / Varicella (15 months)
- Booster (4 years)
Teenagers
13–17 years
- HPV (from age 9–12)
- Tdap booster (around age 11–12)
- Meningococcal vaccines (for some groups)
Adults
18–64 years
- Influenza (annual, for eligible groups)
- COVID-19 (as recommended)
- Tdap during pregnancy
- Tdap booster (around age 45)
65+ Years
Kaumātua
- Influenza (annual)
- Pneumococcal
- Shingles
In Aotearoa New Zealand, there is a national immunisation schedule that sets out which vaccines are offered and when. This includes vaccinations for pēpi and tamariki at key ages, and vaccinations for adults at certain life stages or based on health needs.
Because the schedule can change over time, we don't list the full details here. The best place to check the most up-to-date information is the official national immunisation schedule at the Immunisation Advisory Centre
immune.org.nz/immunisation/programmes/national-immunisation-schedule
If you're not sure what you or your child is due for, your general practice can check and talk you through the next steps.
Where can I get vaccinated?
For most people, your general practice is the main place to get vaccinated. Your practice team can help you book, answer questions, and make sure your immunisation records are up to date.
Depending on where you live and what vaccine you need, you may also be able to get vaccinated through community clinics, outreach services, marae-based clinics, school-based programmes, and other local providers.
If you're not sure what's available near you, start with your general practice, or check local services online.
National campaigns & seasonal reminders
Some vaccinations are part of seasonal campaigns, such as the flu vaccine. At other times, there may be extra focus on preventing outbreaks (for example measles), or updated recommendations for COVID boosters.
For the latest official information on updates, campaign information, and eligibility, check Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and the National Public Health Service (NPHS).
