Overview
New Zealand’s healthcare system includes public, private, and voluntary sectors, with around 85% funded by the government. Citizens receive free or subsidized healthcare, but certain groups—Māori, Pasifika, people with disabilities, and those with higher body weight—experience poorer health outcomes. An aging population is also contributing to an increase in age-related diseases.
Health New Zealand oversees public hospitals and manages primary and community health services, focusing on reducing administrative duplication and centralizing procurement. Southern Cross Healthcare leads the private sector, operating a small hospital network and collaborating closely with public healthcare. Several private providers specialize in geriatric care.
The United States is New Zealand’s largest supplier of healthcare products, and the sector is highly receptive to U.S. technologies, seeking cost-effective solutions that enhance care quality in a system striving to control costs while improving standards. In 2024, the New Zealand Government increased its healthcare funding by 6.2% for frontline health services such as emergency departments, primary care, medicines, and public health.
New Zealand Medical Devices Data, Unit: USD Millions
| Year | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 Estimated |
Total Local Production (Estimated) | 800 | 400 | 400 | 400 |
Total Exports | 197 | 190 | 188 | 180 |
Total Imports | 1023.6 | 515.6 | 800 | 1100 |
Total Imports from the US | 375.0 | 275.0 | 300 | 333 |
Total Market Size | 1626.7 | 725.6 | 1010 | 1320 |
Exchange Rates | 1.578 | 1.630 | 1.654 | 1.600 |
Unit: USD Millions
Source: Global Trade Atlas
Leading Sub-Sectors
- Aviation (AIR): Ambulance Services
- Information, Computers and Technology (ICT): Digital Health
- Medical (MED): Cardio and Orthopedic Equipment
Opportunities
Under the Zero Carbon Act, New Zealand must achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This requires new public buildings, including hospitals, to plan for emissions reduction and adapt to climate effects. This includes rising rates of infectious and chronic diseases, mental health issues, injuries, and deaths. The healthcare sector is a significant consumer of disposable items and energy, particularly in transport (e.g., ambulances).
New Zealand’s healthcare system is open to innovative, cost-effective solutions to meet high standards of care for an aging population. Public health funding is increasing to support new and existing screening programs (e.g., bowel screening), aging-related diseases like diabetes, and obesity management (one in three New Zealanders is categorized as obese). The government is prioritizing funding for individuals with physical, intellectual, or sensory impairments under its well-being mandate, with mental health support also a major focus to address suicide prevention.
Digital health infrastructure, ambulance services (air and road), telehealth, and emerging technologies present opportunities for U.S. companies. Innovations in telehealth, wearables, and remote diagnostics are in demand to enhance communication, data management, and patient care.
Resources
Trade event: There are various industry conferences, but no major healthcare trade shows in New Zealand.
New Zealand Government agencies active in this sector:
New Zealand private sector organizations active in this sector:
- Medical Technology Association of New Zealand
- Southern Cross New Zealand