When it’s time to get vaccinated

Step 1: Receiving an invitation
When you’re eligible, you’ll receive a letter from Book My Vaccine inviting you to book at BookMyVaccine.nz. We’ll follow up with an email and text.

Step 2: Make your booking
Once you’re received your invitation or when your age band is open, go to BookMyVaccine.nz to book your appointments. If you’re unable to book online, you can ring the COVID Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26 (8 am to 8 pm, 7 days) and we’ll make the booking for you and answer any questions. Interpreters are available if you need them.

You can expect to wait for around six to eight weeks from the time you make your booking until your first vaccination. Depending on where and when you’d like to be vaccinated you might find an appointment earlier.

The time between doses of the COVID-19 vaccine has been increased, with the standard time moved from three to six weeks between the first and second doses of the vaccine.

Step 3: Get your vaccination
We’ll send you a reminder the day before each appointment. It’s very important to get two doses of the vaccine – this will give you the best protection.

What happens at your vaccination appointment? 

A healthcare worker will do a health check with you prior to immunisation and give you some standard information. You will have time to ask any questions. You will only be vaccinated if you agree.

Then the healthcare worker will inject the vaccine into your upper arm. You’ll need to stay for 20 minutes after to check that you’re ok and they may ask you about side effects. Once the healthcare worker says you’re fine, you can leave and carry on with your day.

You will be given an appointment time and asked to get your second dose of the vaccine six weeks later.