Immunisation

The National Immunisation Programme recommends immunisation as the most effective way to protect our children from diseases that can cause serious, and sometimes fatal, illness.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, the immunisation journey starts before birth, protecting mothers and their babies as they grow in the womb. Once they are born, regular immunisations are given between six weeks and four years old, with further immunisations at 11 or 12, and 18 years. The National Immunisation Schedule provides a timetable of when your child should get these immunisations so they get the best possible protection against disease. These immunisations are free for babies, children, adolescents, and pregnant people.

Immunisation saves lives, so it’s important your child has all their immunisations. If your child has missed any immunisations, it’s not too late to catch up.

More information about immunisation is available on the Ministry of Health's page. 

If you have any patai/questions, you can also email the National Immunisation Programme.