HealthInfo Canterbury
Money matters in pregnancy
Financial help is available for women when they're pregnant and after their pēpi (baby) is born.
GP, midwife, and specialist care
Health care while you're pregnant (maternity care) is free if you're a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, have a work permit and can stay for two years, and in some other situations. You might also get free maternity care if you aren't eligible but your partner is.
You can find information about who can get free maternity care on the Ministry of Health website.
If you're eligible for free maternity care and your pēpi baby is born in New Zealand, they can get free health care (doctors visits for children under 14 are free). If you aren't sure if you can get free maternity care, call freephone 0800-686-223.
Paid parental leave
Paid parental leave is money paid to parents when they take parental leave from their jobs to care for their newborn or adopted child (under the age of 6). The IRD has more information about paid parental leave, including who's eligible, how to apply and how you get paid.
Working for Families
Working for Families gives tax credits (meaning you pay less tax) to low- to middle-income families with children. You can find out more information about Working for Families from the Ministry of Social Development and Inland Revenue.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- SmartStart
This interactive website helps you to get the information and services you need to help you and your pēpi.
- Community Law – Pregnancy Rights
A booklet explaining your legal options before, during and after pregnancy. It covers sexual health, health care, education for people under 18, housing, work, caring for a child, legal aid and where to go for more support.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed December 2021.
Review key: HIPRC-41255
