Make a Health Complaint in NZ — HDC (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?
Right 10 of the Code gives you the right to complain about a health or disability service, and the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) is the independent body that handles it. Providers must have a complaints process, must acknowledge a written complaint within 5 working days, and keep you updated at least monthly while it's looked into.
You can complain directly to the HDC (0800 11 22 33) about treatment that fell below the Code's standards. A free, independent Health and Disability Advocate (0800 555 050) can help you make the complaint and resolve it with the provider. The HDC can investigate, find a breach of the Code, and recommend changes — this is separate from any ACC treatment-injury claim, which is about compensation.
When does it apply?
- You received poor or unsafe care, or weren't treated with dignity.
- A provider didn't get your informed consent or communicate properly.
- You want an independent body to assess what happened.
What to do to make a health complaint
- Complain to the provider first — they must acknowledge within 5 working days.
- Get a free advocate (0800 555 050) to help.
- Complain to the HDC (0800 11 22 33) if unresolved.
- Lodge an ACC treatment-injury claim too if you were harmed by care.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume a complaint affects your future care — you can't be penalised for complaining.
- Don't confuse the HDC with ACC — HDC is about standards; ACC is about compensation.
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 making a health complaint (hdc) right in New Zealand?
Right 10 of the Code gives you the right to complain about a health or disability service, and the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) is the independent body that handles it. Providers must have a complaints process, must acknowledge a written complaint within 5 working days, and keep you updated at least monthly while it's looked into.You can complain directly to the HDC (0800 11 22 33) about treatment that fell below the Code's standards. A free, independent Health and Disability Advocate (0800 555 050) can help you make the complaint and resolve it with the provider. The HDC can inves...
When does it apply — making a health complaint (hdc)?
You received poor or unsafe care, or weren't treated with dignity.A provider didn't get your informed consent or communicate properly.You want an independent body to assess what happened.
How do I complain about a doctor or hospital in New Zealand?
Complain to the provider first — they must acknowledge within 5 working days.Get a free advocate (0800 555 050) to help.Complain to the HDC (0800 11 22 33) if unresolved.Lodge an ACC treatment-injury claim too if you were harmed by care.
What should you NOT do — making a health complaint (hdc)?
Don't assume a complaint affects your future care — you can't be penalised for complaining.Don't confuse the HDC with ACC — HDC is about standards; ACC is about compensation.