Immunisation Programme updates
Link to the latest version of the Immunisation Handbook plus current operational updates.
Pātiki and Waharua Kōpito patterns
Latest version of the Immunisation Handbook
The Immunisation Handbook provides clinical guidelines for health professionals on the safest and most effective use of vaccines in their practice.
These guidelines are based on the best scientific evidence available at the time of publication, from published and unpublished literature.
The Handbook is updated approximately every 4-6 weeks, refer to the summary of changes for updates to the current version.
Current operational updates
Vaccine brand and eligibility updates from 1 July
From 1 July 2024, a number of small updates come into effect for five of our funded vaccines.
Four of these updates are simple changes in vaccine brand (Havrix 1440, Nimenrix, Act-HIB, Varilrix) and the other change (Shingrix) adds a small increase in eligibility (to include those with specific immune-compromising conditions).
Please note: the change from Neisvac-C to Nimenrix (Meningococcal ACWY) will be a ‘hard’ changeover from 1 July 2024, with remaining stock of Neisvac-C to be disposed of via sharps disposal bins.
Click here to read notice of vaccine product changes.
If you have any questions or require further information, contact immunisation@tewhatuora.govt.nz.
Funded vaccines for high-risk groups
Publicly funded hepatitis A, hepatitis B, haemophilus influenzae type b, human papillomavirus, influenza, meningococcal, pertussis (Tdap), pneumococcal, tuberculosis and varicella vaccines are available for children and adults at high risk of some diseases due to other medical conditions.
For more details see the Additional Funded vaccines for special groups page of the Immunisation Handbook.
Free meningococcal vaccine eligibility widened from 1 March 2023
Free meningococcal B vaccine for tamariki aged under 5 years old
On 1 March the meningococcal B vaccine became free for all babies aged 12 months and under. It’s administered as part of the National Immunisation Schedule alongside the other infant immunisations.
A free catch-up programme is available until 31 August 2025 for all other tamariki aged under 5 years old.
MenB Bexsero quick facts (including scheduling information) – IMAC >
Expanded access for people aged 13 to 25 in specified close-living situations
People aged between 13 and 25, in their first year living in boarding school hostels, tertiary education halls of residence, military barracks, or correctional facilities are also eligible for free meningococcal B immunisation.