KiwiSaver & Weight Loss Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

KiwiSaver can help you cover the costs of gastric sleeve surgery — here’s everything New Zealand patients need to know, from documents to approval times. 

Obesity and related health problems are on the rise in New Zealand, and more patients are turning to gastric sleeve surgery (bariatric surgery) to achieve long-term health benefits. The cost of surgery, however, can be a barrier. Many Kiwis are surprised to learn that their KiwiSaver funds can be used to cover weight loss surgery under the “Significant Financial Hardship” or “Serious Illness” categories. 

In this guide, we explain how KiwiSaver works for bariatric surgery, the required documents, the process timeline, and why it may vary from patient to patient.

In our NewMe Bariatric Support Group, several patients from New Zealand have successfully withdrawn their KiwiSaver savings to fund their surgeries. Here are some of their real experiences and practical tips.

✅ Step 1: Prove Medical Necessity

To qualify for early KiwiSaver withdrawal, you’ll need a doctor’s report confirming that gastric sleeve surgery is medically necessary. This is the foundation of your application, proving that your health condition requires intervention.

✅ Step 2: Get an Official Surgery Offer

Alongside your medical report, your KiwiSaver provider will require an official surgery offer from a hospital or provider. At &NewMe, we provide the necessary documentation for your application.

✅ Step 3: Gather Financial & Supporting Documents

Most providers also ask for:

• Financial statements (to show your financial situation if applying under hardship)

• Any additional supporting medical letters if required

✅ Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve collected your documents, you’ll need to submit them to your KiwiSaver provider. Each provider has slightly different requirements, but the process generally involves submitting your paperwork via email or online.

🕒 How Long Does It Take?

One of the most common questions is about approval times. The truth is, it varies. Some patients receive an answer in just a few days, while others wait several weeks if additional documents are requested.

Here’s an example from our Bariatric Support Facebook Group, shared by a patient:

“Thanks. Have done all this, however due to a large amount of people applying for early hardship withdrawal through the provider, they say it’s taking longer than expected due to high demand. Mine is still in progress after being asked for two more documents. They said the longest is 10 days. Still hopeful.” – Karo T.

This real-life experience highlights the importance of carefully preparing all documents and allowing extra time before your scheduled surgery date.

Another patient, Joy U., who applied through Fisher Funds, shared that her process took roughly four weeks from start to finish.

She provided a GP letter with BMI details and medical reasons for surgery, her &NewMe quote, flight costs, and both her and her husband’s bank statements. Once everything was submitted, her application was approved and she was already on Day 12 of her recovery when she encouraged others in the group:

“Good luck to all… it was approved — hope that helps!”  –Joy U.

Sakura, another patient who applied via her BNZ KiwiSaver account, mentioned that it can take around 10 working days for the first response, another 5–10 days for supervisor review, and another 5–10 days for payment. This means the overall process usually takes between 3 and 5 weeks, depending on your provider and the completeness of your documents.

🇳🇿 Which KiwiSaver Providers Can You Apply With?

If you’re planning to use your KiwiSaver funds for your weight loss surgery abroad, there are several trusted providers you can apply through.

Each company has its own process, documentation requirements, and approval speed — so knowing what to expect beforehand can save you time and stress.

🔹 Most Commonly Used KiwiSaver Providers

1️⃣ Fisher Funds KiwiSaver

One of the most popular options among patients. Some have reported that Fisher tends to respond faster than others.

2️⃣ Public Trust KiwiSaver (publictrust.co.nz.)

A reliable and established provider, known for transparent communication.

 They typically request a confirmation email from the provider (us) to verify your treatment details before approving the release of funds.

3️⃣ Medical Assurance Society (MAS) KiwiSaver

Often chosen by healthcare professionals and patients seeking additional coverage.

They may request more detailed documentation, including quotations and medical reports.

4️⃣ Generate KiwiSaver

Another flexible provider used by some patients. They are open to medical withdrawal applications but may ask for proof of necessity from your GP or surgeon.

💡 Tip: Some providers prefer paying the funds directly to the clinic, while others transfer the money to the patient. Always confirm this before submitting your application, as it affects what kind of quotation and IBAN information we’ll include for you.

📑 What These Providers Usually Require

Each KiwiSaver company has slightly different requirements, but most will ask for:

1️⃣ A GP letter or medical report stating that the surgery is medically necessary.

2️⃣ A quotation that includes treatment details, package, and cost.

3️⃣ A flight ticket showing your travel to Türkiye for the operation.

4️⃣ Financial hardship documents, such as proof of expenses or savings.

5️⃣ (If required) A confirmation email or IBAN from the clinic, depending on the provider’s payment policy.

Her surgery quote was from overseas, and Fisher Funds accepted it — though some other providers may require a New Zealand-based quote. Always confirm with your bank before submitting.

Here’s a real example from a patient’s successful application through Fisher Funds:

Attached documents:

• Letter from GP

• Quote of surgery

• Quote of flights

• Bank statements (for both applicant and spouse)

• Passport

• Proof of address

Her surgery quote was from overseas, and Fisher Funds accepted it,  though some other providers may require a New Zealand-based quote. Always confirm with your bank before submitting.

✅ Pro Tip: Sending complete and accurate documents at the beginning speeds up your approval process significantly. Missing or incomplete paperwork often causes long delays.

Alisha, another group member, offered a simple but powerful tip:

“Attach as much paperwork as you can — it speeds up the process. The more documents, the less hassle, and it shows your provider that you’ve done all the work and this is your last resort.” – Alisha.

These community experiences remind us that preparation, persistence, and proper documentation make all the difference.

💬 Ready to Learn the Facts About Gastric Sleeve?

Schedule a call with Selin, our gastric sleeve expert, to explore your options, costs, and packages in Turkey.

✅ Your transformation starts here.

Real Stories: Life-Changing Transformations from New Zealand & Australia

Sarah, 38, Christchurch, New Zealand

"Before my gastric sleeve surgery with &New Me, I struggled with obesity-related health issues. Now, I’ve lost 40 kg, and my diabetes is under control. I finally feel like myself again."

Michael, 45, Sydney, Australia

"I hesitated for years, but &New Me gave me confidence. I lost 50 kg post-surgery, and my energy levels have skyrocketed!"