Charitable Dental Support in Canterbury
If you are unable to afford dental care and do not qualify for other funding, there are charitable organisations that may be able to help.
These services have strict eligibility criteria and usually require a dentist referral.
Canterbury Charity Hospital
The Canterbury Charity Hospital provides free dental care for eligible patients.
Eligibility Criteria
Patients must generally:
- Be 18–65 (WINZ beneficiaries) or 18–69 (low income workers)
- Be unable to afford private treatment
- Not qualify for public hospital care
- Be referred by a dentist
You may also need to provide financial information if not receiving benefits such as:
- Jobseeker Support
- Sole Parent Support
- Supported Living Payment
- Child Disability Allowance
We can assess your situation and provide a referral if appropriate.
Learn more: https://www.charityhospital.org.nz/
Wish For A Smile Trust
The Wish For a Smile Trust helps children who need orthodontic treatment but cannot afford it.
Support may be available for:
- Medically necessary orthodontic care
- Children meeting specific criteria
Applications require dental professional support.
Learn more: https://wishforasmile.org.nz/