nib New Zealand paid out record healthcare claims to members in the first half of the 2026 financial year, reporting $174.1 million in incurred claims, up 9% from $159.7 million in the previous corresponding half year.
In reporting its 1H26 return to profitability recently, which saw an underlying operating profit of $5.5 million up from a $10.9m loss 1H25, nib NZ Chief Executive, Skye Daniels, said the 1H26 profit result was achieved in difficult economic conditions amid persistent, high-level claims inflation, but noted nib NZ delivered record levels of healthcare payments to New Zealanders
“It has been a very challenging environment for the health sector, nationwide,” Daniels said in a statement. “Industry-wide claims inflation is moderating, but at elevated levels. Despite these challenges, nib NZ has paid out $174.1 million in claims, and supported 15,700 members through our proactive health engagement programmes.”
The company says pricing increases and a strong focus on reducing management expenses, which include some operating and marketing costs, and substantial technology-driven productivity gains, supported the return to profitability.
“Core technology system upgrades were completed, driving costs in the business lower and helping return service to sustainable levels.”
Daniels said the decision to re-price health insurance premiums during the year was not taken lightly (see: nib CEO Outlines Health Policy Update).
…We continually strive to deliver value for our customers, while managing claims inflation, which is at historically high levels…
“We are very mindful of the stresses that New Zealand householders face. We continually strive to deliver value for our customers, while managing claims inflation, which is at historically high levels.
“Utilisation is also high, which shows that New Zealanders value their private health insurance in an environment where public services are stretched.”
Utilisation inflation was at 10%, down from 15% in 2H25. “The decisions we made during the half year, including some limited co-payments, should result in a moderation in premium rises in the years ahead,” she said.
Daniels said claims inflation appears to have stabilised, in part due to hospital services CPI improving in 1H26. However, utilisation remains high, contributing to sustained levels of overall high claims inflation.
In the 1H26 period, nib nz revenue rose to $250.8 million from $218.0 million in 1H25.