He āwhina hauora utu-kore · Free health support for sawmill workers

You did the work.
Here's your check.


If you worked in a New Zealand sawmill before 1989, you're entitled to a free annual health check every year. No cost. No catch.

Get your application pack
Sawmill 4

Easier to talk? Call us free: 0800 288 588 to get your pack.

Is this for you?

You may be eligible if you worked in a sawmill where PCP (pentachlorophenol) or other timber treatment chemicals were used, even if nobody told you about the risks at the time.

  • You worked in a New Zealand sawmill where PCP chemicals were used.
  • You came into contact with PCP baths or tanks, or worked with timber still wet from treatment.
  • You worked in those conditions for at least one year in total.
  • You're a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.

The work period that qualifies is roughly the 1950s through to 1989. Eligibility is assessed by the Sawmill Workers' Service after you apply — your GP doesn't make that decision.

Not sure if you qualify? Apply anyway. You can explain your situation in the application, and an appeals process is available if needed.

Sawmill 2

One free check, every year.

This is with your own GP. It's tailored to your health history and checks out what matters for people who worked around these chemicals. There is no cost to you, no co-payment, nothing.

The check specifically looks for conditions linked to dioxin exposure, including:

  • Hodgkin's disease & non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • Soft tissue sarcoma
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
  • Hypertension
  • Chloracne & skin conditions
  • Blood disorders (monoclonal gammopathy)
Sawmill 3
Sawmill 9

Claim your free health check

 

Get your application pack sent straight to your inbox, or call us at 0800 288 588

Common questions

Things you may want to know

Can someone fill in the form on my behalf?

Yes. A family member, partner, or support person can complete the application for you. This is encouraged. Many whānau members help their fathers, uncles, or partners through the process.

I'm not sure exactly which chemicals I worked around. Can I still apply?

Yes. If you worked in a sawmill during the qualifying period and believe you may have been exposed, apply and explain your situation. An appeals process is available if your initial application is unsuccessful.

How long does it take to be approved?

Processing time is 20 working days once all required information is received. You and your GP will both be notified in writing when your application is accepted.

What if I'm in the Bay of Plenty?

You can submit your application through Ngāti Awa Social and Health Service Trust in Whakatāne. Call them on 07 306 0096, or visit their website.

Can I post the form back?

Yes - if you can't scan the form to email it, you can post it to:

Sawmill Workers Service

PO Box 10730

Wellington 6143

Can the form be sent to someone else's email?

Yes. If you don't have an email address, you can get the form emailed to whānau or another person.

Also, if you're not the person who should apply, but you think someone in your life is, then it's fine to request the pack and share it with them.