School Office — Aug 4, 2021

Enable New Zealand manages the children’s spectacle subsidy on behalf of the Ministry of Health.

Who can get the spectacle subsidy?

A child or young person who is 15 years of age or under, provided:

• the parent/guardian or child has a valid community services card, or

• the child has a current high use health card.


The spectacle subsidy can be claimed for the following items:

• Eye examination

• Spectacles (frames and lenses)

• Eye patches, and/or

• Repairs.


How much can I claim and what can I claim for?

The total subsidy amount available each year for your child until they turn 16 years old is $287.50 including GST. Of the $287.50, a maximum of $138.00 including GST can be used toward frames. Additional funding of $51.11 including GST is available if your child requires adult size frames.


How do I claim the spectacle subsidy?

All optometrists and ophthalmologists registered with Enable New Zealand have the required forms you will need to sign.


If I have further questions who can I contact?

If you have any questions about the spectacle subsidy, please contact Enable New Zealand on 0800 ENABLE (362 253) orenable@enable.co.nz.  Or visit your local optometrist.