NZ Government Content

National Travel Assistance (NTA) Scheme for Health Services

The National Travel Assistance (NTA) Scheme helps with travel costs for people who need to travel often or for long distances to get specialist health or disability services. Sometimes, it can help with accommodation costs too.

Who may receive this?

To get this service, you need to be referred by your specialist (not your family doctor) to see another specialist or to receive specialist services. Both the specialists must be part of a service funded by the government. For example, this could be a renal dialysis centre, a specialist cancer service or a child development service. Getting this service also depends on how far you have to travel and how often. The rules are different for children and adults and for those holding a Community Services Card. Sometimes, a support person can get help too.

You may not be able to get help from this scheme if you already get - or could get - help with travel costs from somewhere else. For example, you may be able to get help from ACC.

Who to contact about NTA

  • Talk to your local hospital travel co-ordinator, a hospital social worker or your specialist.
  • Visit the NTA website www.moh.govt.nz/travelassistance or call 0800 281 222.

If you or the person you support is a client of ACC

Talk to ACC. They may be able to help with some costs if you travel a long way to get treatment or rehabilitation services or if your travel costs are very high. Contact your ACC case manager, if you have one, or call 0800 101 996.