Code of Health & Disability Rights in NZ (2026)
About this article
Sourced from New Zealand Acts of Parliament (legislation.govt.nz), regulations, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights gives everyone using a health or disability service 10 enforceable rights. They include the right to be treated with respect and dignity (Right 1), freedom from discrimination and coercion (Right 2), dignity and independence (Right 3), services of an appropriate standard (Right 4), effective communication (Right 5), to be fully informed (Right 6), to make an informed choice and give informed consent (Right 7), support (Right 8), rights in teaching and research (Right 9), and the right to complain (Right 10).
Right 1(3) specifically requires services to take into account the needs, values and beliefs of Māori and of different cultural and disability groups. The Code applies to every provider — public and private, paid and unpaid — and is enforced by the Health and Disability Commissioner.
When does it apply?
- You're receiving any health or disability service in New Zealand.
- You feel you were treated without dignity, information or consent.
- You want to understand your rights as a patient.
What to do to use your patient rights
- Ask questions and expect clear answers — Rights 5 and 6 require effective communication and full information.
- Use a free Health and Disability advocate (0800 555 050) if you need support.
- Raise concerns with the provider first, then the HDC if unresolved.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume private patients have fewer rights — the Code covers all providers.
- Don't accept being rushed into a decision — you have the right to be informed first.
About Healthcare Rights in New Zealand
Everyone using a health or disability service in New Zealand is protected by the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights — 10 enforceable rights including informed consent, dignity, effective communication, and the right to complain. The Code is overseen by the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC).
New Zealand is also unusual: the Accident Compensation Act 2001 creates a no-fault injury scheme run by ACC that covers treatment and rehabilitation for accidental injury — and in return, section 317 bars most personal-injury lawsuits. So instead of suing, you claim from ACC. This shapes nearly every injury situation in NZ.
HDC: 0800 11 22 33. ACC: 0800 101 996. Healthline: 0800 611 116.
Common Questions
What is the the code of health & disability rights right in New Zealand?
The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights gives everyone using a health or disability service 10 enforceable rights. They include the right to be treated with respect and dignity (Right 1), freedom from discrimination and coercion (Right 2), dignity and independence (Right 3), services of an appropriate standard (Right 4), effective communication (Right 5), to be fully informed (Right 6), to make an informed choice and give informed consent (Right 7), support (Right 8), rights in teaching and research (Right 9), and the right to complain (Right 10).Right 1(3) specifically re...
When does it apply — the code of health & disability rights?
You're receiving any health or disability service in New Zealand.You feel you were treated without dignity, information or consent.You want to understand your rights as a patient.
What rights do patients have in New Zealand?
Ask questions and expect clear answers — Rights 5 and 6 require effective communication and full information.Use a free Health and Disability advocate (0800 555 050) if you need support.Raise concerns with the provider first, then the HDC if unresolved.
What should you NOT do — the code of health & disability rights?
Don't assume private patients have fewer rights — the Code covers all providers.Don't accept being rushed into a decision — you have the right to be informed first.