Pre-existing medical conditions

It is important to know that pre-existing medical conditions (PECs) are not covered under the Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy.

You can still purchase a Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy if you have PECs but you will not be covered for any claims that are related to or associated with your PECs.

However, this policy offers cover for unexpected events that occur while you’re on your journey, which are unrelated to your PECs.

Common questions

We know that PECs can be confusing, but it’s important you understand them, so you know what you are and are not covered for under the Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy. Here are some common questions we get asked about PECs.

1. What is a pre-existing medical condition?

Different travel insurance companies may have different definitions for the term ‘pre-existing medical condition’. At Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI), we define a PEC as any medical or physical condition that you’re aware of, or should be aware of, which has required medical care.

This is a simplified definition; you can find a more detailed explanation on page 14 of the Policy Document.

Below are some common illnesses and injuries that we consider to be a PEC:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart and vascular illnesses such as high blood pressure
• Anxiety
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Hernias
• Lung illnesses such as asthma
• Gallstones
• Back pain
• Allergies
• Hay fever
• Eczema
• Sprain

It’s important to remember that if you develop any of these conditions during your trip and they do not meet our definition of a PEC, then these would be considered unexpected and we may be able to offer cover.

2. If I’m taking medication for a condition but the condition is stable, is this still considered to be a PEC?

Yes, any condition which you are currently on medication for, or have taken medication for, is considered to be a PEC.

3. My conditions are controlled, are they automatically covered?

No, your conditions are not automatically covered. The Visiting New Zealand travel insurance policy does not offer cover for any PECs.

Need some help?

If you would like to get in touch, we’re here to help. If you have any questions regarding our Visiting New Zealand travel insurance, you can:

Call us from New Zealand: 0800 784 691
Call us from overseas: +64 9 979 6597
Email us: info@scti.co.nz

Take the next step towards your journey in New Zealand and get an online travel insurance quote today.

What you need to know

This page provides a summary of the key terms only. As with all insurance policies, terms and conditions apply. For our terms and conditions (including information about exclusions, excesses and sub limits) we recommend you read the travel insurance Policy Document.