Summer is here, and many in our community will be taking time to rest, travel or enjoy the warm days across the Bay of Plenty. The holiday period is a busy time for our region, with beaches, parks and community spaces full of activity. This guide brings together simple tips to help you stay well, plan ahead and enjoy the season safely.

Get Ready

• Plan Your Prescriptions: Avoid last-minute stress by ordering your medication repeats early, so you can focus on enjoying your summer plans and not worrying about having your scripts filled.
• Travel Smart: Visiting remote spots? Pack all your essentials, rural pharmacies may have limited stock.
• Healthcare Quick Guide: Bookmark and share this resource with your whānau for clear guidance on where to seek care in the Bay of Plenty when you’re feeling unwell.
• After-hours in the Bay of Plenty 101: Download and print or save these short guides for the Western Bay and Eastern Bay to see where to get care when your local doctor is closed.
• Understanding the New Zealand Health System: If you find the system confusing, read these top tips or watch this webinar to learn how it works and how to get the help you need.

Telehealth Options

• Medical Advice On the Go: Reach out to your GP for video and phone consultations, perfect for summer travels.
• Practice Plus: Virtual consultations from 9am–10pm Monday to Friday and 8am–8pm on weekends and public holidays. Access practiceplus.nz to learn more and get started.
• Free Helpful Resources Available 24/7:
  ➡️ Healthline (0800 611 116): Call anytime for free health advice.
  ➡️ Plunket Line (0800 933 922): Call anytime for support for tamariki health.
  ➡️ Call/Text 1737: Free mental health support, available anytime.

Trusted Health Information Sources

• WBOP PHO Website: Find local doctors, after-hours options and free health and wellness services.
• HealthPoint: Find local healthcare services anywhere in New Zealand.
• Healthify: Access simple, practical health tips written by experts.
• Info.Health.nz: Explore a wide range of credible health information and resources.

Sun Safety and Water Fun

• Be Sun Smart: Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, slop on sunscreen, and wrap on sunglasses to protect yourself. Check the UV forecast and avoid peak sun hours (11am–3pm).
• Stay Hydrated: Keep water handy to beat the summer heat.
• Water Safety: Always check swimming conditions. When in doubt, stay out.

Stay Up to Date with Immunisations

Summer gatherings are better when everyone is protected. Ensure your immunisations, like measles and whooping cough, are current to keep yourself and your community safe.

🔗Learn more: Catching up on missed immunisations

Spread Kindness

• Appreciate Healthcare Workers: A simple smile or kind word can brighten their day.
• Show Community Spirit: Check in on neighbours or friends who may feel isolated this season.