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Canterbury Healthcare
Canterbury's health providers have received international recognition for their integrated system which includes a number of hospitals in Christchurch, Ashburton and Timaru.
Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury
Health services in Christchurch and the Canterbury region are provided by Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury, and South Canterbury.
Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury
Public Hospitals
Canterbury and Ashburton
The main hospital in the Canterbury region is Christchurch Hospital, with a smaller one in Ashburton. There are also several small rural hospitals. For all hospitals in the Canterbury region check the Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury website.
Hospitals | Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury
Timaru
Timaru Hospital is the only hospital in the South Canterbury region.
Timaru Hospital | Te Whatu Ora South Canterbury
Private Hospitals
To find private hospitals in this region search on the Ministry of Health webpage.
Private hospitals | Ministry of Health
Dentists
All dentists are registered with the Dental Council of New Zealand. Use their website to find a dentist near you.
Doctors (GPs) and local health centres
Doctors (GPs) are fully trained medical doctors who can advise you on your health and refer you for further tests or specialist treatment if needed. GPs are registered with a Primary Health Organisation (PHO).
Enrolling with your local doctor will save you money and help keep you and your family healthy.
To find a GP near you use the links below.
Enrolling with your local doctor
North and central Canterbury
South Canterbury
Finding a GP | Te Whatu Ora South Canterbury
Mental Health Services
Mental health services in Canterbury are provided by Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury. Mental health services in South Canterbury are provided by Te Whatu Ora South Canterbury. See their websites for details.
If you are feeling distressed or if you need someone to talk to, you can call or text 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor. This is a free service and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Mental health services | Te Whatu Ora Canterbury
Search mental health services - Timaru | Healthpoint
After Hours Medical
For information about after hours healthcare and emergencies see the relevant Te Whatu Ora website.
After hours - Emergencies | Te Whatu Ora Canterbury
After hours GP services | Te Whatu Ora South Canterbury
If you are feeling unwell or need some urgent medical advice, Healthline offers a 24 hour health service over the phone. You can call them on 0800 611 116.
About Healthline | Ministry of Health
Plunket
The Plunket Society (Plunket) offers information, support and developmental assessments of children at varying stages between birth and 5 years. They also organise parenting education and parenting groups. See the links below for services in your area.
Plunket also offers a free parent helpline and advice service available to all families and caregivers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 0800 933 922 for parenting help.
Having a baby
There are various options available for giving birth in the Canterbury region. Check on the Ministry of Health website to see what is available in your area.
Canterbury maternity facilities | Ministry of Health
South Canterbury maternity facilities | Ministry of Health
Senior line
Senior Line is a phone service and online portal with information for older people and their carers who are making decisions about staying at home, retirement villages, day care options and rest homes. Call 0800 725 463 or visit the website.
South Canterbury | Senior line
Hospice
Hospice is specialist care is given to those with life-limiting illness. Hospice Canterbury provides hospice care in Canterbury free of charge and in the setting of their choice.