Most New Zealanders are eligible for some level of help with the cost of hearing aids. The price you pay covers your devices and a one-year service package with your audiologist. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to hearing care, so we offer a range of hearing aids and technology options to suit your hearing loss, lifestyle and budget. Read on to learn more about the main funding options available.
The New Zealand Government provides a subsidy of $511.11 (inc GST) every six years for one hearing aid, or $1,022.22 for two.
More here >As a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, you’re entitled to this subsidy through Disability Support Services. It helps cover part of the cost of your hearing aids and is available once every six years.
For more information, visit the Disability Support Services website.
The New Zealand Government may cover the full cost of your hearing aids, though fitting and assessment fees are not included.
More here >This funding is available to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. As an adult, you may be eligible if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
For more information, visit the Disability Support Services website.
You may be eligible for funding through ACC if more than 5% of your hearing loss is due to an injury. ACC can help cover part of the cost of your hearing aids.
More here >Funding may apply if your hearing loss is caused by:
The amount of funding varies depending on the cause and degree of hearing loss, and how much of your hearing loss is linked to the injury. New Zealand Hearing clinics provide hearing aids at all ACC funding levels.
The process for obtaining ACC funding can feel daunting, but your audiologist is here to support you every step of the way. Every New Zealand Hearing clinic is ACC certified and will guide you from start to finish.
You may be eligible for hearing aid funding through the Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand (VANZ) program if your hearing loss or tinnitus is linked to a Qualifying Service.
More here >A Qualifying Service means you were deployed on one or more specific operations or served in the New Zealand Armed Forces prior to 1 April 1974. You may also be eligible if your hearing loss or tinnitus prevents you from working as a result of your Qualifying Service.
For more information, visit the Veterans' Affairs website.
You may need to file an insurance claim if your hearing aids are lost or damaged beyond repair.
More here >Accidents happen, and sometimes hearing aids are lost or damaged. If you need to make a claim, your New Zealand Hearing audiologist will guide you through the process. We work with all types of insurance companies to ensure you get the care you need during this stressful time.
Please note: some insurance companies have “preferred providers,” but we can still work with your insurer. Don’t hesitate to speak with your audiologist if your insurance company suggests a different provider – we’ll make sure the process is as smooth as possible.
Learn more about insuring your hearing aids.
You can claim for eligible services, like hearing tests, at the time of your appointment through Southern Cross Easy-Claim.
More here >We are accredited Southern Cross Easy-Claim providers. Please enquire with your local clinic. Southern Cross Easy-Claim lets members claim for eligible services – no forms required. If your policy covers the service, Southern Cross pays us directly, and you only pay any remaining balance. Coverage varies between policies, so we recommend checking your plan before your appointment.
Please note: hearing aids and hearing devices are not covered under Easy-Claim.
For more information, visit the Southern Cross website.