Am I eligible for bowel screening?
Free bowel screening is now available across Aotearoa New Zealand. Here's who can get it and how.
You're eligible if you are:
- •Aged 58 to 74
- •Enrolled with a GP in New Zealand
- •Eligible for publicly funded health services
As of March 2026, the National Bowel Screening Programme covers all 20 District Health Board regions. If you're in the age range, you should receive a test kit in the mail automatically.
Who's eligible for screening
The National Bowel Screening Programme is a free, government-funded programme. It uses a simple at-home test called the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) to check for tiny amounts of blood in your poo – a possible early sign of bowel cancer.
How the programme works
If you're enrolled with a GP and in the eligible age range, you'll be invited every two years. A test kit is posted to your home address with clear instructions. You collect a small sample and post it back in a prepaid envelope. Results are sent to you and your GP within a few weeks.
What if I haven't received a kit?
If you're in the eligible age range and haven't received a kit, contact your GP practice. They can check your enrolment and make sure you're registered for the programme. You can also call the National Screening Unit on 0800 924 432.
What if I'm younger than 58?
The screening programme is currently for people aged 58 to 74, but bowel cancer can affect people of any age. Rates in younger people are rising in New Zealand and around the world.
If you're under 58 and experiencing symptoms:
- •Don't wait for screening – see your GP as soon as possible
- •Your GP can request a FIT test or refer you for a colonoscopy at any age
- •If you have a strong family history, talk to your GP about earlier surveillance
When should I consider earlier screening?
Your GP may recommend earlier or more frequent screening if you have:
- A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) who had bowel cancer, especially if they were diagnosed under 55
- Two or more relatives on the same side of the family with bowel cancer
- A known genetic condition like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
- A previous history of bowel polyps
In these cases, surveillance colonoscopies are usually recommended at regular intervals, starting earlier than the standard programme.
Maori and Pacific peoples
Maori and Pacific peoples are diagnosed with bowel cancer at higher rates and are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, when treatment is harder. This makes screening especially important.
Higher risk, lower uptake
Research shows that Maori and Pacific peoples have lower screening participation rates. Barriers can include access to healthcare, transport, cost of GP visits, and cultural factors. The screening programme is actively working to address these gaps.
Support is available
Many regions have dedicated kaitiaki or community health workers who can support you through the screening process. You can also access screening through Maori health providers and Pacific health services. The test itself is free, and there's no need for a GP visit to complete it.
Why is screening important for whānau?
Bowel cancer can run in families. If one person in your whānau has been diagnosed, others may be at higher risk. Encouraging each other to get screened is one of the most practical things you can do. The test takes just a few minutes at home and could save a life.
If you're worried about a family member, our nurse support line can help you have the conversation. Call us free on 0800 226 968.
How to get your kit
Check you're enrolled
Make sure you're enrolled with a GP and your address is up to date. The kit is posted to your home address.
Wait for your invitation
If you're in the age range (58 to 74), you'll receive a letter and test kit in the mail. Invitations are sent out in batches, so it may not arrive immediately.
Haven't received one? Get in touch
Contact your GP practice or call the National Screening Unit on 0800 924 432 to check your status and request a kit.
Next steps
Find out more about how screening works, or check your symptoms if something doesn't feel right.
Have questions about screening?
Our nurse support team can answer your questions and help you understand your options.