Healthcare Services for Children and Youth NZ | The Doctors

Comprehensive child and youth healthcare services

We’re committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the needs of children and youth, ensuring they grow up healthy, happy, and supported.

Free visits for children under 14

All our medical centres offer free visits with the clinical team (GPs , nurse practitioners , nurses) at the practice where they’re enrolled for children under 14 years old.

We recommend enrolling your child at your preferred medical centre soon after their birth. This allows GPs and clinical staff to get to know your child and provide ongoing help and advice when you need it.

6-Week immunisation and GP check

Following New Zealand’s national immunisation schedule, the first one is due at 6 weeks old. At this appointment your GP will do a quick check of your baby, before or after seeing the nurse. If you have any concerns, please raise them during this visit.

Routine childhood immunisations

It is important to stay on top of essential immunisations to protect your child’s health. The national immunisation schedule includes MMR, whooping cough, pneumococcal disease, meningitis and hepatitis B.

Contact your GP if your baby:

Is under three months old and has a fever
Is aged 3–6 months and has a fever of 38°C or higher
Shows signs of dehydration (e.g., fewer wet nappies, dry mouth)
Refuses to feed or has difficulty feeding
Suddenly struggles to sleep or seems sleepier than usual
Is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or is constipated
Has a tender belly button or penis, or if you notice any changes in colour
Develops a rash
Has red, swollen, or discharge-filled eyes

If you're worried about your baby's health, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. In urgent cases, visit your nearest A&E if your child is seriously unwell, or call 111 in an emergency.

Happy children playing in puddle in winter

Early childhood development and specialist referrals

If your child is over 5 years old and you are concerned about their development, book an appointment with their GP. We can talk about the issue and provide specialist referrals if required.

Nutrition and eating habits

If you’re concerned about your child’s nutrition or eating habits, talk to us. We can assess and guide you, or refer to a nutrition specialist. For older children, we offer advice on balanced eating and healthy habits.

Mental and emotional health support

We support children and teens with mental and emotional well-being. This includes help for anxiety, depression, and behavioural challenges in young children, and support for teens managing stress, peer pressure, body image, and online safety.

mental health counselor comforting teenager green hair

Chronic disease management

Our GPs support children with chronic health conditions , such as asthma, diabetes, allergies, and more. We refer you to specialists, as needed.

Adolescent health and puberty

We offer support through puberty, covering menstruation, acne, hormonal changes, and more. Our sexual health services are age-appropriate and cover help with contraception, STIs, and healthy relationships. We empower your teen to feel informed and confident.