Best Pet Insurance in New Zealand for 2025
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, over one hundred thousand users in NZ trust us each month to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Why take out pet insurance?
Veterinary care costs in New Zealand have risen by over 30% in the past five years, making unexpected illnesses and accidents a financial risk for most pet owners.
Advanced treatments like MRI or orthopaedic surgery can easily cost thousands of dollars, with urban clinics among the most expensive in the country.
Pet insurance, much like human health insurance, helps manage these high costs by reducing out-of-pocket expenses at the time of treatment.
As treatments become more sophisticated, having insurance is an effective way to protect both your wallet and your pet’s health.
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (NZ$) | % covered with Basic Plan | % covered with Premium Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digestive surgery (blockage) | $1,500 – $3,500 | Covered up to $1,000–$1,500 | Up to 100%, annual cap $10,000+ |
| Desexing (spay/neuter) | $400 – $800 | Sometimes excluded | Up to 80% (annual limit applies) |
| X-ray | $300 – $500 | 30% to 60% | Up to 100% |
| Dental scaling | $800 – $1,500 | Rarely covered | Up to $300/year (limit applies) |
| Hospitalisation (1 night) | $350 – $700 | 30% to 60% | Up to 100% |
| Ear/skin infection treatment | $90 – $200 | 30% to 70% | Up to 90% |
| Blood test | $90 – $200 | About 50% | Up to 100% |
| Annual vaccination | $120 – $180 | Not covered or up to $40 | Up to 100% (wellness package) |
| Standard vet consultation | $65 – $85 | 30% to 60% | Up to 100% |
| Deworming treatment | $20 – $50 | Not covered | Included (2x/year, with wellness) |
What does pet insurance cover?
| Name of coverage | 🟢 Essential / 🟠 Recommended | Coverage (Basic Plan) | Coverage (Premium Plan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vet consultations (GP & emergency) | 🟢 Essential | Covered with caps ($40–$50/visit, annual cap) | Fully covered (up to annual limit) |
| Medications (prescription only) | 🟢 Essential | Partial (up to 60%) | Up to 100% |
| Hospitalisation | 🟢 Essential | Daily cap ($100/day, annual limit) | Fully covered (annual cap $8–15k) |
| Surgery & anaesthesia | 🟢 Essential | 70–80%, cap ($2,000–5,000/year) | Up to 100%, higher annual cap |
| Lab tests (blood, urine) | 🟢 Essential | Up to 50% | Up to 100% |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 🟢 Essential | 60%–80% | 90%–100% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | 🟢 Essential | $1,500–$6,000/year | $10,000–$15,000/year |
| Deductible (per year or per claim) | 🟢 Essential | $100–$150 per claim | $0–$100 per year |
| Euthanasia (vet decision) | 🟢 Essential | Partially covered ($80–$200) | Fully covered (up to $350–$400) |
| Dental accidents (trauma/fracture) | 🟢 Essential | Sometimes excluded or capped ($250) | Often included, up to $500 |
| Wellness care (vaccines, deworming) | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Included via wellness package |
| Routine dental scaling | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Up to $100–$300/year (add-on) |
| Radiography, ultrasound, MRI | 🟠 Recommended | Sometimes excluded/capped ($300/year) | Fully included, higher cap |
| Ambulance transport | 🟠 Recommended | Rarely covered | Sometimes included, capped |
| Alternative medicine (physio, acupuncture) | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Sometimes covered ($100–$300/yr) |
| Therapeutic diet (if prescribed) | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Sometimes reimbursed ($100/year) |
| International travel cover | 🟠 Recommended | Local only | Emergency cover in AU and abroad |
| Death / cremation costs | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Up to $300–$500 |
| Theft, loss, search expenses | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Sometimes covered (rare) |
| Boarding fees (owner in hospital) | 🟠 Recommended | Not included | Up to $250–$300/year |
What does pet insurance usually not cover?
| Exclusions type | Healthcare not covered | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | Pre-existing conditions, hereditary/breed-specific illness | Usually apply for life or limited years, must declare when taking out cover |
| Preventive/non-urgent | Routine checks, flea/worm treatment, vaccinations | Only included via wellness add-ons, otherwise excluded |
| Reproduction & pregnancy | Breeding, pregnancy, whelping and fertility treatments | No cover for planned breeding or birth-related care |
| Age limits | Senior pets (>10-12 years) sometimes excluded | Age restrictions for new policies vary by insurer |
| Behavioural exclusions | Behavioural therapy, training, non-essential services | Medication only covered if prescribed, therapy rarely included |
| Dental exclusions | Routine cleaning, cosmetic or orthodontic procedures | Dental accidents/trauma sometimes included, routine work usually excluded |
| Legal / identification | Council fines, registration/microchip issues | All pets must comply with NZ legal requirements to be eligible for claims |
| Geographic exclusions | Care outside NZ, travel overseas unless add-on included | Some policies include emergency Australian cover on premium plans |
How much does pet insurance cost?
Pet insurance premiums in New Zealand are based on your pet’s breed, age, location, chosen coverage, and their medical history. Premiums generally rise as pets age, after claims are made, or if more comprehensive cover and extra add-ons are chosen.
- Breed: Purebred and high-risk breeds may have higher premiums due to genetic risks.
- Age: Premiums increase each year, especially after age six to eight.
- Plan type: Accident-only is most affordable, comprehensive plans cost more.
- Location: Urban pet owners (e.g., Auckland, Wellington) face higher premiums.
- Prior health/claims: Ongoing conditions or recent claims can lift your price.
- Coverage extras: Adding wellness or travel cover increases costs.
- Discounts: Multi-pet or annual pay discounts may apply.
Premiums typically increase each insurance renewal as pets get older or extra claims are lodged. Starting early and choosing essential cover can help manage long-term costs.
Dog insurance cost
| 🐶 Dog profile | Common conditions or care needs | Monthly premium (basic plan) | Monthly premium (premium plan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever – 2 y/o | Joint issues, obesity | $30 – $45 | $80 – $120 |
| Labrador Retriever – 10 y/o | Osteoarthritis, cancer | $65 – $90 | $160 – $240 |
| French Bulldog – 1 y/o | BOAS, skin infections | $38 – $60 | $90 – $155 |
| French Bulldog – 9 y/o | Breathing, skin allergies | $75 – $120 | $180 – $310 |
| Border Collie – 3 y/o | Epilepsy, injuries | $28 – $40 | $70 – $110 |
| Border Collie – 11 y/o | Osteoarthritis, declining health | $60 – $98 | $155 – $230 |
Cat insurance cost
| 😺 Cat profile | Common conditions or care needs | Monthly premium (basic plan) | Monthly premium (premium plan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine Coon – 2 y/o | HCM, joint problems | $24 – $33 | $52 – $78 |
| Maine Coon – 9 y/o | Heart disease, arthritis | $48 – $66 | $112 – $148 |
| British Shorthair – 1 y/o | Obesity, dental concerns | $19 – $26 | $43 – $60 |
| British Shorthair – 10 y/o | Diabetes, kidney disorders | $43 – $65 | $110 – $150 |
| Siamese – 3 y/o | Respiratory, gastrointestinal | $22 – $29 | $47 – $68 |
| Siamese – 11 y/o | Senior health, thyroid problems | $48 – $67 | $120 – $160 |
What are the best pet insurance plans?
1. PD Insurance – Best for vet consult reimbursements
PD Insurance Premium plan stands out by covering vet consultations for both accidents and illnesses without low annual sub-limits. This is ideal for owners who make regular vet visits, ensuring fewer out-of-pocket costs on consultations and diagnostics.
2. Petcover – Best for Older Pets
Petcover’s “Plus” and “Ultimate” plans allow cover for older cats and dogs, even up to 20 years old if previously insured. Their flexible co-payment options and high annual limits make them attractive for senior pets with chronic or long-term conditions.
3. Southern Cross Pet Insurance – Best for Routine Care
The “Routine and Dental” add-on from Southern Cross provides comprehensive wellness cover, including annual vaccinations, deworming, flea treatment, and dental care. It’s a practical choice for pet owners who want predictable annual expenses and a focus on preventive health.
4. Cove – Best for small budget
Cove’s “Simple Plan” delivers affordable accident and illness cover for under $35 per month (for young, healthy pets) with straightforward policy terms. This makes it one of the best value choices for new owners or those wanting to keep costs minimal.
5. Petplan – Best for Customizable Plans
Petplan gives policyholders a high degree of flexibility, allowing selection among accident-only, classic, and supreme options. Owners can tailor annual limits, excess, and add-on cover to fit their pet’s age and risk profile, making it very user-friendly.
6. PD Insurance – Best for Claim process
PD Insurance's online claim portal is recognised for being quick and hassle-free, with many claims paid within 2 business days. Transparent communication and minimal paperwork make the experience especially good for busy pet owners.
How to lower the cost of your pet insurance?
| Tip | Impact on premium & explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool at the top of this page to find the best price |
| Choose higher deductible | Selecting a higher excess will lower your monthly or annual premium |
| Insure pet early | Younger pets are cheaper to insure and avoid age-related price increases |
| Select only essential cover | Exclude add-ons like dental or travel cover unless truly needed |
| Pay annually | Some insurers offer a discount if you pay for the year upfront |
| Multi-pet discount | Insuring more than one pet with the same provider may result in discounts |
| Maintain up-to-date check-ups | Preventive care can help avoid costly claims and premium rises |
| Desex your pet | Many insurers offer lower premiums for desexed cats and dogs |
FAQ
Is pet insurance in New Zealand worth it?
Yes, for many owners, pet insurance can save thousands of dollars on emergency medical care or chronic treatments. It reduces the risk of large, unexpected vet bills and provides peace of mind, especially as veterinary costs in NZ continue to rise.
What doesn’t pet insurance cover in NZ?
Most New Zealand pet insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions, routine care (unless added on), elective and cosmetic procedures, pregnancy, and behavioural treatment. Always check your policy for details before you purchase or make a claim.
Can I insure a senior dog or cat?
You can insure older pets with some providers, such as Petcover and Southern Cross, but premiums are higher and coverage may be restricted. It’s easier and cheaper to keep lifelong cover if you start while your pet is young and healthy.
Does pet insurance cover dental work?
Most plans cover dental injuries or illness following an accident but exclude routine cleaning and cosmetic procedures unless a wellness add-on is purchased. Coverage for dental is increasingly common in premium and wellness-included plans.
How soon does cover start after applying?
There is usually a waiting period of 21–30 days for illness coverage, while accidents are generally covered after 48 hours. Some conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries or dental care, can have even longer waiting times.
How do I make a claim with my pet insurance?
You usually pay the vet directly and then submit a claim online or by mail with the invoice and supporting documents. Many leading insurers, such as Southern Cross and PD Insurance, process claims quickly and can pay rebates directly to your bank account.
Can I use any vet or specialist in NZ?
Yes, all major New Zealand pet insurance policies let you visit any registered vet or animal hospital. This includes after-hours clinics and animal emergency centres, offering flexibility and choice for your pet’s medical care.
Does pet insurance cover prescription foods?
Therapeutic diets may be covered on select premium or comprehensive plans, mostly if prescribed for a specific illness. Always check your policy for limits and exclusions, as this is not standard in basic plans.
Are multi-pet discounts available?
Yes, many New Zealand insurers provide a discount when you insure two or more pets under the same policy. This is a useful way to lower the overall cost per pet.
Can I cancel my pet insurance if my circumstances change?
Most NZ insurers allow you to cancel at any time, usually with written notice. Any unused portion of collected premiums is often refunded on a pro-rata basis if you have not made any recent claims.
Is pet insurance in New Zealand worth it?
Yes, for many owners, pet insurance can save thousands of dollars on emergency medical care or chronic treatments. It reduces the risk of large, unexpected vet bills and provides peace of mind, especially as veterinary costs in NZ continue to rise.
What doesn’t pet insurance cover in NZ?
Most New Zealand pet insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions, routine care (unless added on), elective and cosmetic procedures, pregnancy, and behavioural treatment. Always check your policy for details before you purchase or make a claim.
Can I insure a senior dog or cat?
You can insure older pets with some providers, such as Petcover and Southern Cross, but premiums are higher and coverage may be restricted. It’s easier and cheaper to keep lifelong cover if you start while your pet is young and healthy.
Does pet insurance cover dental work?
Most plans cover dental injuries or illness following an accident but exclude routine cleaning and cosmetic procedures unless a wellness add-on is purchased. Coverage for dental is increasingly common in premium and wellness-included plans.
How soon does cover start after applying?
There is usually a waiting period of 21–30 days for illness coverage, while accidents are generally covered after 48 hours. Some conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries or dental care, can have even longer waiting times.
How do I make a claim with my pet insurance?
You usually pay the vet directly and then submit a claim online or by mail with the invoice and supporting documents. Many leading insurers, such as Southern Cross and PD Insurance, process claims quickly and can pay rebates directly to your bank account.
Can I use any vet or specialist in NZ?
Yes, all major New Zealand pet insurance policies let you visit any registered vet or animal hospital. This includes after-hours clinics and animal emergency centres, offering flexibility and choice for your pet’s medical care.
Does pet insurance cover prescription foods?
Therapeutic diets may be covered on select premium or comprehensive plans, mostly if prescribed for a specific illness. Always check your policy for limits and exclusions, as this is not standard in basic plans.
Are multi-pet discounts available?
Yes, many New Zealand insurers provide a discount when you insure two or more pets under the same policy. This is a useful way to lower the overall cost per pet.
Can I cancel my pet insurance if my circumstances change?
Most NZ insurers allow you to cancel at any time, usually with written notice. Any unused portion of collected premiums is often refunded on a pro-rata basis if you have not made any recent claims.
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