Influenza can be a serious illness, even for healthy people. Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to reduce your risk of becoming unwell, being hospitalised, or passing the flu on to vulnerable members of our community.
Health NZ recommends the flu vaccine every year for everyone aged 6 months and over.
The 2026 vaccine has been updated to match the strains expected this winter, based on newer viruses seen overseas.
Who can get a free flu vaccine
You may be eligible for a funded (free) flu vaccine if you are:
Pregnant
Aged 65 years and over
Aged 6 months to under 65 years with eligible conditions*
A child 4 years of age and under who has been hospitalised for respiratory illness, or has a history of significant respiratory illness
Aged 6 months to under 65 years with serious mental health and addiction conditions
Health NZ recommends being vaccinated from late April onwards for the strongest protection during the peak winter season, but it’s never too late to get protected.
You can book a nurse appointment now by calling the clinic on 03 442 0144