Health New Zealand is expanding access to online healthcare services as winter demand continues to put pressure on the health system.

The agency has enhanced its Online GP Care service, introducing a new comparison tool that allows patients to view participating providers, appointment options and pricing before booking a consultation.

Acting director of community and primary care funding Martin Hefford said in a statement it was another way for people to access healthcare when they could not see their regular GP, needed care after hours, were travelling, or unable to secure a prompt appointment.

“With winter pushing demand up for care everywhere, this is a good time to remind people that they can get a GP video appointment from their own home seven days a week through this service,” Hefford said.

“For patients, the recent improvements mean they can more easily compare providers, appointment options and pricing, and connect with available care when their GP is not available.”

Since launching in mid-2025, more than 85,784 New Zealanders have used the Online GP Care service, resulting in more than 115,426 consultations.

More New Zealanders are set to benefit from online healthcare, with Health New Zealand expanding its Online GP Care service. Photo / 123RF

Health NZ is also widening access to online consultations through community-based settings, backed by a $3 million investment.

The funding helps pharmacies, rural health providers and other community organisations establish private consultation spaces equipped with technology that connects people with online GPs.

As of July, 245 pharmacies and 56 rural and urgent care providers had signed up to offer the service.

Health NZ said the initiative was aimed at helping people who do not have access to a device, internet connection, an enrolled GP, or who face other barriers to accessing primary healthcare.

In pharmacies, patients may be able to complete an online GP consultation and collect any prescribed medication in a single visit. In rural communities, the service offers another option for people seeking care closer to home.

The expansion follows recently announced subsidy changes that make online GP appointments free for all children under-14, regardless of whether they hold a Community Services Card.

Costs have also been reduced for young people aged 14 to 17. The maximum co-payment for Community Services Card holders falls from $30 to $13.50. Other young people will pay up to $45 for an appointment — down from $55.