The plan is UltraCare Base with no excess, and includes cover for eligible pre-existing conditions not already covered by ACC.
For full details, refer to the Southern Cross UltraCare policy on its website.
Getting started
Q. How do I join the HPSNZ/Southern Cross scheme?
A. You’ll receive an email with a Southern Cross link when you’re onboarded. Just follow the link to activate your policy. You will need to choose to activate or opt out within 1 month of becoming a TAPs athlete.
Q. Who pays for the insurance?
A. HPSNZ pays your premiums while you’re TAPS-eligible and for 6 months after your support ends. After that, you can choose to continue the policy at your own cost.
Q. Is there an excess I need to pay?
A. No – your policy has no excess.
ACC vs Health Insurance
Q. How does this work with ACC?
A. ACC covers accidental injuries. This policy covers illnesses, non-ACC injuries, and eligible pre-existing conditions.
Leaving or Changing the Scheme
Q. What happens when I retire or leave the TAPS pathway?
A. Your NSO will notify you first and then notify HPSNZ. Transition from the TAPS pathway is a structured process with ongoing care for a specified time that will involve your health support staff. HPSNZ will continue paying your premiums during your transition phase, after whichyou can choose to continue your cover at your own cost.
Q. Can I opt out of the scheme?
A. Yes – you can opt out at any time by notifying HPSNZ. Important: You cannot re-join the HPSNZ/Southern Cross scheme once you opt out.
Living or Travelling Overseas
Q. What if I get injured or sick overseas?
A. Use your travel insurance while overseas. Once back in NZ, eligible treatment under the policy is covered.
Q. I live overseas most of the year – am I still eligible?
A. To be part of the scheme you need to be eligible for treatment in the New Zealand Public Health system. To see who is eligible for this click here.
You can activate your policy while overseas, and it will cover treatment in NZ. Some overseas treatment may be covered if not available in NZ.
If you are overseas for an extended period – we recommend you touch base with our insurance broker InsureYou – details below.
Under 18s and Family Cover
Q. I’m under 18 – how does that work?
A. A parent or guardian must hold the policy on your behalf.
Q. Can I add my partner or children to my policy?
A. Yes – you can add them when activating your policy and you will be responsible for the additional premiums to add family members.
- Newborns can be added within 90 days of birth with no medical application.
- Partners and children can be added within 60 days of activation.
Q. How much does it cost to add my partner?
A. Costs vary by age and gender. Southern Cross can provide a quote.
Other Insurance and Add-ons
Q. I already have health insurance – can I still join?
A. Yes – you can keep your existing policy and join the HPSNZ scheme. You can’t claim for the same treatment on both policies.
Need advice? Contact insurance broker
Gema Hill: [email protected] | 021 824 815
Q. Can I get extra cover?
A. Yes – Southern Cross offers add-ons you can purchase directly. Contact Southern Cross or Gema Hill for options.
Privacy and Reporting
Q. Will HPSNZ see my medical details?
A. No – HPSNZ only receives high-level quarterly reports (e.g. types and costs of treatments), with no identifiable or sport-specific details.
Suspending Cover
Q. Can I pause my insurance if I travel overseas after retiring?
A. Yes – you can suspend your cover if you’re overseas for 2 months or more. Contact Gema Hill for help.