Can I fundraise for someone else’s medical treatment?
Yes, with their consent. The money is paid to a verified bank account for the beneficiary or someone they have authorised.
Fundraising guide
Raising money for medical costs in New Zealand
Medical fundraisers are among the most common in New Zealand. Even when treatment is publicly funded, families often face costs for travel, accommodation, time off work, equipment or treatment not funded here.
Written and reviewed by the Good Cause team at Webfit Solutions Limited · Updated 29 September 2026 · About Good Cause
Check what support is already available
Before you set a target, check what may already be covered. ACC may cover costs related to an injury. Your hospital social worker can explain travel and accommodation assistance. Work and Income may help with some costs. This helps you set an honest target and explain it to donors.
Get consent from the person you are helping
If you are fundraising for someone else, they must agree to the fundraiser and to what is shared about their health. Keep medical details to what donors need to understand the situation. Good Cause asks for the beneficiary’s consent before a campaign goes live.
Explain the costs clearly
List the main costs: treatment, flights, accommodation, lost income, equipment. If treatment is overseas, include the quote. Donors give more confidently when they can see where the money goes.
Keep supporters updated
Short updates after appointments or milestones let supporters know how the person is doing and how the money has been used. You decide how much to share.
Start your fundraiser
Free to start. Reviewed by a person. The cause receives 97.5% of every donation.
Common questions
Are donations to a medical fundraiser tax deductible?
Usually not. Donation tax credits only apply to donations to approved donee organisations, not gifts to individuals.
Related guides
- How to fundraise for someone else
- How to write a fundraising page people want to share
- Can I claim a tax credit on my donation?
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.