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A flu vaccination is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself this winter and if you are a HealthCarePlus Member who has a current UniMed policy you may be able to claim back the cost
As the colder months set in, flu season is back and getting vaccinated is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself, your whānau, and your workplace.
Unlike a common cold, the flu can come on suddenly and leave you feeling knocked around for days, with symptoms like fever, chills, body aches, cough, and fatigue. The good news is that a flu shot each year gives you the best protection, because the vaccine is updated to match the strains expected to circulate that season.
The 2026 flu vaccine is available in New Zealand from April 1, 2026, with 1.2 million doses available.
It is free for high-risk groups, including those aged 65+, pregnant people, and those with specific underlying conditions.
However, if you're not eligible for a free shot, UniMed's can reimburses up to $45 per person, per year for active Members. HealthCarePlus members can also use this UniMed offer.
Why flu vaccinations matter
While many people recover from influenza within a week or two, the flu can lead to more serious complications for some people, particularly older adults, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
For example, getting the flu can significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. According to the PHCC, since 2003, strong evidence has emerged demonstrating that the flu vaccine offers substantial cardiovascular protection.
The incidence of heart attacks and stroke is reduced by about one third. That’s on par with many of the daily heart medications routinely prescribed to high-risk patients.
It is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your whānau is through an annual flu vaccination. Getting vaccinated each year helps your immune system prepare for the strains of influenza most likely to circulate that season and helps reduce the spread of infection in households, workplaces, and communities.
Getting your flu shot early also means you’re protected before flu season reaches its peak during the winter months.
You can book your flu vaccination with your doctor, nurse, or local pharmacy.
Check if you qualify for a free flu vaccine first
Before booking your flu shot, it’s worth checking whether you are eligible for a free flu vaccination through Health New Zealand.
Free flu vaccines are available for people who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill from influenza. Eligibility criteria are updated each year and include certain age groups, health conditions, and other risk factors.
You can check the latest eligibility criteria online or speak with your GP or pharmacist to find out whether you qualify.
UniMed's offer to support prevention
If you are not eligible for a free flu vaccination, UniMed can help with the cost.
They have a Flu Shot Member Offer that reimburses flu shots up to $45 per person, per year.
This means members can receive their flu vaccination through a GP clinic, pharmacy, or authorised provider and claim back the cost through their UniMed membership.
Eligibility and next steps
This reimbursement benefit is available to UniMed Members with active policies. For HealthCarePlus Members that means the following: Primary Care, Primary Care Extra, #care4U and Hospital Select.
How to redeem the offer:
1. Check if you're eligible for a free vaccine first. If not then,
2. Book your flu vaccination with your doctor, nurse, or local pharmacy.
3. Get an invoice and submit the claim through the UniMed Member Portal
Not covered yet?
If you don’t currently hold one of these policies, you’ll need to purchase an eligible Health Plan first before you can access the benefit. You can find out more about these plans and sign up here.
A Final Thought from Us
This offer is just another example of how HealthCarePlus, through our partners, makes it easier and more affordable to take proactive steps toward protecting your health.
Something as simple as a flu vaccination can reduce your risk of illness and help protect the people around you. Taking this small step early in the season can make a meaningful difference when winter arrives.
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