The Rare Disorders NZ team is here to support the rare disorder community during the current COVID-19 crisis. If you are having any issues with accessing treatment, care, the COVID-19 vaccine or need extra support, please email us

What you need to know

  • From 1 April 2023, anyone aged 30 and over, and people at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, can receive an additional booster, if it has been at least 6 months since their last COVID-19 booster or positive COVID-19 test.
  • Everyone in New Zealand aged 5 and above is able to get vaccinated.
  • Tamariki aged 5 to 11 who are severely immunocompromised can receive a third primary dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
  • A paediatric Pfizer vaccine which contains a lower dose of mRNA is now available for tamariki aged 6 months to 4 years who are at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19. This is a 3 dose course.
  • By getting vaccinated you’ll be playing your part to protect New Zealand. It will save lives and help us to further open up the country.
  • Getting vaccinated is the next step to gain more protection against the virus, which will lead to more certainty for the future. Find out more with NZ Vaccine Facts.
  • Vaccine questions and answers brochure
  • To get tailored advice and support for booking your vaccination appointments, including assistance with coordinating transport to and from the vaccination site and arranging support/accommodations during the appointment please call 0800 28 29 26 open between 8am - 8pm Monday - Friday.

Anyone over the age of 5 can now be vaccinated


Book your vaccine

You don’t need an invitation – go to BookMyVaccine.nz or phone the COVID Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26. There are enough COVID-19 vaccines for everyone in New Zealand.

Video – How to use Book My Vaccine


Resources

Ministry of Health

NZ Government

Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz)

Extra Resources

COVID-19 Vaccine webinar hosted by The New Zealand Down Syndrome Association for the rare disorder community with guest speaker Dr Rosemary Marks Rare Disorders NZ boardmember.

Resilience webinar for the rare disorder community - hosted by RDNZ and Tracey Hancock, a Life Coach who has herself navigated through health challenges and faced her own fears

Face mask/covering exemptions

New website for carers from our partners in the Carers Alliance

Story for kids about the virus, with self-isolation tips for adults

Student Volunteer Army can help people get essential groceries and medication

Countdown priority assistance - email us for a unique code

Psychological First Aid (NZ Red Cross)

Accessible information

Mental Health Foundation - tips for looking after mental health and wellbeing

Guidance for Maori

Guidance for Pacific Islanders

Social stories, role plays and more to help prepare you and your disabled family member for their vaccine