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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.
Easier to talk? Call us free: 0800 288 588 to get your pack.
Eligibility
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.
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.
It also covers a full general health review. Referrals are available, including free genetic counselling.
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)
The Process
Five steps to your free check
1. Enter your email below
We'll send you the application form and everything you need to get started.
2. Fill in the form
It asks for your personal details, your GP's contact info, and your employment history at the mill. Someone else can fill it in on your behalf if that's easier.
3. Get it witnessed by a JP
The form needs a statutory declaration signed by a Justice of the Peace or another authorised person. You can find one near you using this website.
4. Send it in
Scan the form and email it to [email protected] or post to the address in your pack. Bay of Plenty residents can also submit through Ngāti Awa Social and Health Service Trust in Whakatāne.
5. Book your check
Once accepted (usually within 20 working days), you and your GP are notified. Then you book in, at no cost to you.
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.
Claim your free health check