HealthInfo Canterbury
National Health Index (NHI) numbers
The National Health Index (NHI) number is a unique number used to identify people in the New Zealand health system. Anyone who has had contact with the New Zealand health system should have an NHI number consisting of three letters and four numbers, for example ABC1235.
Finding your NHI number
There are several ways to find your NHI number, including on:
- a prescription, prescription receipt or prescription medicine bottle label
- a hospital letter
- an X-ray or test result
- your profile on the online patient portal provided by your general practice.
If you can't find your NHI, a health professional such as your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist, chiropractor, dietitian, occupational therapist, osteopath, physiotherapist or podiatrist may be able to help.
If you're new to New Zealand, you'll be given an NHI number next time you use a health or disability support service.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Ministry of Health – National Health Index
Information about the National Health Index (NHI) and NHI numbers.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed June 2021.
Review key: HIYHI-77571
