Flu Vaccine

The flu virus is a highly contagious virus that frequently changes, requiring annual vaccinations to protect against serious illness from the latest strains. Even if you’re fit and healthy, without a vaccination the flu can make you really unwell and more likely that you could pass the virus on to vulnerable people around you, such as older adults, pregnant people and your tamariki (children). Protect yourself and your whanau, by getting your flu vaccine early. 

Getting immunised helps to lower the risk of serious illness. It also reduces the chance of passing infections on to others in your whanau and community.

2026 flu vaccines are free for the following people:

• Children aged between 6 months – 5 years

• Children enrolled with our clinics in Auckland between 6 months - 12 years

• Māori & Pacific aged 55 years and over (Auckland enrolled patients only)

• People aged 65 years and over

• Pregnant people

• People who have a long-term medical condition like diabetes, asthma, or a heart condition (aged 6 months and older)

• People who are currently accessing secondary or tertiary mental health and addiction services, or have a mental health condition including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder

If you fall outside of the above categories, you can still pay for a flu vaccine. Just ask at reception for more information.

When should I get a flu vaccine? The sooner the better. This will ensure you have the maximum protection before you are exposed to the virus in the community. The 2026 New Zealand flu season started late and is expected to go on longer than usual - so it’s definitely beneficial and not too late for people to get vaccinated. The predominant virus is influenza A subclade K; and the flu vaccine is a good match to currently circulating flu viruses.

How long does it take? The vaccine takes less than 1 minute. You will need to wait for about 20 minutes if it's your first vaccine, or 5 minutes if you've had one before to ensure no severe side effects occur. If you’ve had previous allergies to the vaccine, you may be asked to stay longer.

Why do I need a flu vaccine every year? The flu virus is constantly evolving, so the vaccine is updated each year to match the new strains. Getting a flu vaccine every year is your best protection against serious illness and helps to prevent the spread.

How does the flu vaccine work? The vaccine teaches your body to recognise the new strains of flu and allows you to develop antibodies ahead of exposure in the community. This means you'll have a stronger immune response to the virus, significantly reducing the chance of severe illness, complications and hospitalisation. It is particularly effective for high-risk groups like children, pregnant individuals, Māori & Pasifika over 55 years, and those 65 and over.


If you or your children would like a flu vaccine, please just come in and see us (no appointments needed).

Helpful flu vaccination resources

• Influenza – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

• Pharmac funding criteria