New Ministry of Health data shows the average number of GP visits for under-13s has increased almost 14 per cent between July and December 2016, compared to the same period in 2014.

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says this is due to more than 99 per cent of New Zealand GP practices receive funding to make zero fees possible for under-13s.

"We want to ensure young Kiwis get the best possible start in life. Removing the cost barrier of doctor visits and prescription charges is having a really positive impact on many families.

'The data shows that more Maori and Pacific children are being seen by their enrolled GP. There was a 14.9 per cent increase in visits for Maori children and an 11.1 per cent increase in visits for Pacific children between July and December 2016, compared with the same period in 2014.”

Based on district health board reported coverage, Jonathan says about 780,000 children under-13 also have access to free after-hours general practice visits within 60 minutes travel time.

'The Government is committed to ensuring that not only do our children have the access to the care that they need but that they can also access after-hours care.”