TL;DR: Key Takeaways
- GP skin check: $45–$80 for enrolled patients (not free)
- MoleMap full-body check: $200–$400 depending on package
- ACC does not cover screening — only treatment in limited circumstances
- Public dermatology: 2–4 weeks for suspected melanoma, 3–12 months for non-urgent
- Free AI screening (ScanSkinAI) is a sensible first step before paying
The New Zealand Skin Check Landscape
New Zealand has the world's second-highest melanoma rate after Australia (full context in our NZ skin cancer overview), but the country's healthcare system handles skin checks very differently. Unlike the UK's NHS or Australia's bulk-billing GPs, most Kiwis pay for skin checks out of pocket — and the cost varies dramatically depending on where you go. This guide explains your real options.
Option 1: Your GP
Your enrolled general practice is usually the cheapest entry point. A standard 15-minute consultation costs $45–$80 for adults, and the GP can examine a specific mole or do a brief full-body look. They can also refer you into the public dermatology system if they're concerned.
- Best for: a single suspicious mole, recent change, family history concern
- Cost: $45–$80 (varies by practice and Community Services Card status)
- Timeline: same week typically
- Limitation: GPs are not dermatology specialists — they may refer on
Option 2: MoleMap and Private Skin Cancer Clinics
MoleMap is the dominant New Zealand skin check brand, with clinics nationwide. They specialise in total body photography, dermoscopy, and dermatologist-reviewed reports. Other private operators include Skin Institute and Canterbury Skin Cancer Clinic.
- MoleMap full-body check: $200–$400
- MoleMap dermatologist review (additional): $100–$200
- Best for: family history of melanoma, many atypical moles, baseline imaging
- Timeline: usually booked within 1–2 weeks
Free first step before MoleMap
Use ScanSkinAI to check at home first. If a mole is flagged, you'll have stronger justification to pay for a clinic visit.
Option 3: Public Dermatology
If your GP suspects skin cancer, they can refer you to the public dermatology service through your local DHB. Suspected melanoma is triaged urgently and usually seen within 2–4 weeks. Non-urgent referrals can wait 3–12 months — which is why many Kiwis pay privately.
What ACC Actually Covers
A common misconception: ACC does not cover skin cancer screening or routine mole checks. ACC may provide cover for treatment injuries related to skin cancer surgery in limited circumstances, but the diagnostic pathway is not ACC's responsibility. For prevention and screening, you're paying out of pocket or using the public health system.
Free Resources Worth Knowing
Pair these with our universal monthly self-exam routine and the ABCDE rule for what to look for.
- Melanoma NZ — runs occasional free community screening events. Check melanoma.org.nz
- SunSmart NZ — free education and self-exam guidance
- ScanSkinAI free mole check — AI screening of a single mole, no card required
- Healthline NZ (0800 611 116) — free 24/7 nurse triage if you're worried about a changing mole
For UV-specific guidance, NZ's UV is some of the most extreme on Earth — see our UV index NZ guide and the safe sun exposure calculator to translate UV into personal burn time.
Where AI Screening Fits
An AI mole checker like ScanSkinAI doesn't replace MoleMap or your GP — it sits before them. If you're hesitating to spend $200–$400 on a full check, use a free AI screen first. If it flags a concern, that's a strong reason to book. If everything looks clear, you've still got an objective baseline to compare against in 3 months. Read our AI mole checker vs dermatologist comparison for the full picture.
When to Skip the AI and Go Straight to a Doctor
Some signs need a doctor first. The subungual melanoma guide and our non-healing sore guide cover the highest-risk presentations.
- A mole that is bleeding, ulcerated, or won't heal
- Rapid change in size, shape or colour over weeks
- A new dark spot that looks different from your other moles (the 'ugly duckling')
- A pigmented streak under a fingernail or toenail
- Family history of melanoma plus any concerning lesion
In any of these cases, book a GP appointment or MoleMap directly. See our NZ skin cancer overview for context on incidence and risk factors.