Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is set to introduce a new format for the National Health Index (NHI) starting 1 July 2026.

This significant update aims to enhance the capacity and efficiency of patient identification within New Zealand’s health system.

The NHI is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s healthcare, providing a unique identifier for every individual from birth or their first interaction with key health services. It ensures accurate linking of patient health information, supporting better healthcare delivery across the country.

Michael Dreyer, Director of Sector Digital Channels, Health NZ says most New Zealanders will not notice a difference, and it will have no impact on existing NHI numbers.

“The new format will be for new babies and people using the health system for the first time. The new NHI format with over 33 million unique identifiers will mean that we can meet the needs of New Zealanders for decades to come.”

Health IT suppliers need to update their systems, devices, and processes for both the current and new format before 1 July 2026.

Key changes:

  • Current format: AAA111# (three letters, three numbers, and a special single number that is used to check the NHI number), accommodating approximately 10 million unique identifiers.
  • New format: AAA11A# (three letters, two numbers, another letter and one special single letter to check the NHI number), expanding capacity to 33 million unique identifiers.

Both formats will coexist to minimise disruption to existing systems.

Timeline

  • The transition to the new format was initially set for 1 October 2025 but has been extended to 1 July 2026 to provide additional time for health IT suppliers and organisations to adapt.
  • Health IT suppliers must ensure their systems support both the current and new formats by 1 July 2026 and communicate any necessary upgrades to their clients.

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