Urgent Help & After Hours Care

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Support When You Need It Most

We understand that health emergencies don't follow a schedule.
This guide ensures you and your whānau know exactly where to turn when urgent help is needed outside our normal operating hours.

Emergency Medical Care

When To Seek Emergency Care

You should immediately seek emergency medical attention if you or a whānau member experiences:


  • severe chest pain or difficulty breathing,
  • serious injuries or accidents,
  • severe allergic reactions,
  • or any life-threatening situation. 


Call emergency services or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

A man holding a child in the air.
A map of the city of Dunedin, New Zealand.

Dunedin Hospital Emergency Department

Address: 201 Great King Street, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand

Phone: (03) 474 0999

Open: 24 hours, 7 days

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Ōamaru Hospital Emergency Department

Address: 8 Steward Street, Ōamaru 9444, New Zealand

Phone: (03) 433 0290

Open: 24 hours, 7 days

A map of a city with a red pin on it.

Lakes District Hospital Emergency Department

Address: 20 Douglas Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 441 0015

Open: 24 hours, 7 days

Call 111 immediately for ambulance services
Stay calm and provide clear information
Follow emergency operator instructions
Head to your nearest emergency department

Mental Health Crisis Support

A blue sign that says 17737.

1737 - Need to Talk?

  • Call or text 1737 anytime
  • Free service
  • Trained counsellors available 24/7
  • Cultural support available
A purple logo for Lifeline.

Lifeline Aotearoa

Phone: 0800 543 354
Professional counseling support
Crisis intervention services
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Youthline

Phone: 0800 376 633
Text: 234
Website: Youthline
Specialised support for rangatahi/youth
Text or call options available

Non-Emergency After-Hours Care

Digital Access

Use the Manage My Health App for:

  • Booking future appointments
  • Requesting prescription renewals
  • Viewing test results
  • Secure messaging with your healthcare team
Go to Manage My Health

Next-Day Care

If your concern can wait until our next operating day:

  • Book online through our patient portal
  • Call first thing in the morning for same-day appointments
  • Leave a message for our healthcare team

Emergency Preparedness Tips

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Be Ready Before an Emergency

  • Save emergency numbers in your phone
  • Keep a list of current medications
  • Know your nearest emergency department location
  • Download the Manage My Health App
  • Share this information with your whānau

During an Emergency

When facing an urgent situation stay calm and ensure you're in a safe location. Call appropriate emergency services immediately. Have someone stay with you if possible. Always follow professional medical advice carefully. Keep your personal ID and health information readily accessible throughout the emergency.