2026 Flu Vaccine

Colds and flu are more common in winter, so we encourage you to get your flu vaccine before the season.

The vaccine is available from 1st April each year and is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over.

How do I book my flu vaccine?

Booking your flu vaccine with Piritahi Hau Ora couldn't be easier. Dedicated flu clinics will be available from the 7th of April 2026. You will also be able to have your covid booster at the same time.

  • MyIndici Patient Portal: Select our Flu Clinic

  • In clinic:  Simply enquire at reception, and they can make an appointment for you. We may even have some availability on the day.

  • Phone: Call the clinic and talk to someone from our reception team. 093723111

You don't need to be enrolled with us to get the flu vaccine. We welcome casual patients.

Why should I get a flu vaccine?

The flu (influenza) is not the same as a common cold. It hits you quickly and can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, a runny nose, coughing, trouble breathing, and an upset stomach. This can leave you stuck in bed for a week or longer.

The flu typically spreads when people cough or sneeze, and it's most common in the winter.

Even if you're generally healthy and fit, the flu can make you or your kids very sick.

Because the flu virus mutates frequently, the flu shot has to be updated every year to protect against the latest strains. This is why getting a flu shot yearly gives you the best defence against getting sick.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. It’s especially important for older adults, pregnant people, young children at higher risk, and anyone with long-term health conditions like heart, lung, diabetes, or immune issues. Healthcare workers and carers are also encouraged to get vaccinated.

When should I get a flu vaccine?

The ideal time to get your flu vaccine is just before winter hits, typically between April and June, as it takes around two weeks to build full protection.

The flu vaccine is part of an annual immunisation programme that is updated each year to target the most common flu strains. Getting vaccinated every year is the best way to stay protected and reduce your risk of serious illness.

How much does the flu vaccine cost?

In New Zealand, the flu vaccine is funded for people most at risk of serious illness, including:

  • People aged 65 years and over

  • Pregnant people

  • People under 65 with certain long-term health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or reduced immunity)

  • People with serious mental health or addiction conditions

  • Children aged 4 years and under who have previously been hospitalised for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory illness

If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a funded flu vaccine, talk with your practitioner or nurse, and they can help determine your eligibility.

‍For those not funded:

  • Standard flu vaccine: $35

  • Advanced flu vaccines (Fluad Quad or Flucelvax Quad): $50

  • There are several flu vaccine options available, including both standard and advanced protection. Your care team will guide you through the best choice for your age and health needs during your appointment.

  • People aged 65 years or older are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from influenza and are eligible for Fluad Quad, a tailored version of the flu vaccine.

    This version of the flu vaccine is designed to help create a stronger immune response to the vaccine. It is beneficial for older people who often have a lower protective immune response after flu vaccination compared to younger people.

    NOTE: This vaccine is unfunded, it will cost $50 and may need to be ordered in advance as we will only carry limited amounts.

  • Yes. The flu vaccine is very safe and has been used for decades around the world. Like any vaccine, mild side effects such as a sore arm or tiredness can occur, but serious reactions are rare.

  • Yes. You can safely get both vaccines during the same visit. Please advise reception or make a note when you book online, that you would like to have both vaccines.

  • Yes. Even if you’ve had COVID-19, you should still get the flu vaccine. Just wait until you’re feeling well and out of isolation.

  • It takes about two weeks for your body to build full protection after the flu shot, so don’t wait until flu season peaks.

  • Yes. The flu virus changes constantly, so the vaccine is updated each year to match the circulating strains. That’s why yearly vaccination is recommended.

  • Absolutely. The flu vaccine is available for children aged 6 months and older. We recommend calling the clinic if you're booking for a child under 5 years. Not all Tamariki are funded for the flu vaccine

  • Consent is gathered during your appointment - verbal consent is usually all that’s required.

  • Only come in for a flu/Covid vaccine if you are well; i.e., you must NOT have Covid or Flu-like symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, or diarrhoea.