Child and Youth Health

 

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

All our medical centres offer free visits with the clinical team (GPs, 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 on this visit.

You should 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.

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.

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 nutritional needs or eating habits, come and speak to us. We can assess the issue, talk about solutions, or refer you to a specialist if required. For older children, we offer guidance on balanced diets and healthy eating habits and can refer to nutrition specialists when needed.

Mental and emotional health support

We offer mental health support for both children and teens with their mental and emotional well-being. This includes assistance with concerns about anxiety, depression, or behavioural challenges in younger children, as well as guidance for teens on managing stress, peer pressure, body image issues, and online safety..

Chronic disease management

See your GP for managing conditions like asthma, diabetes, and allergies. Referrals to specialists are available as needed.

Adolescent health and puberty

We offer comprehensive support to help adolescents navigate puberty, covering topics like menstruation, acne, hormonal changes, and more. Our sexual Health education provides age-appropriate guidance on contraception, STIs, and general sexual health, empowering your teen to feel informed and confident.

Specialist Referrals

We can facilitate referrals to paediatricians, psychologists, ENT specialists, and more.

How to access our services

Book an Appointment
Appointments can be booked online or by contacting your chosen medical centre. 

Enrol with us today

Resources and education

There are some great resources and tools available online. Here are our top recommendations: