We’re here to protect you, wherever you are…

Whether you’re backpacking around Europe, sunning yourself in Bali or skiing up a storm in the Alps, we’ve got the perfect policy for you. Nobody likes to think about what could go wrong on holiday - but it’s always best to prepare for the unexpected. Why not let Columbus make sure  you can enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind?

We’re confident that the numbers of happy people we’ve insured speak for themselves; since 1988, we’ve protected over 15 million travellers’ worldwide. Our award-winning customer service and simple claims process will ensure that wherever you go, Columbus Direct is there with you.

family

Here are some of the benefits you get with a Columbus Direct policy:

  • Choose from two levels of cover to suit your needs and budget.
  • Get an automatic discount (5%-25%) if the policy covers more than one adult.
  • When named on the policy, up to three children (aged 2-18) and up to two infants (under 2 years) go free when travelling with their parent or grandparent. (Excludes any optional cover for pre-existing medical conditions)
  • You don't need to be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident to get covered; we only require that you have lived here for the past 3 months.
  • Cover for trips of up to 365 days.
  • Short scheduled stop-overs (up to 24 hours) in countries outside your selected area are covered.
  • We can cover many pre-existing medical conditions. Simply complete our free online medical screening.
  • Certain cover for pregnancy available (see details and conditions).
  • Cruises are covered (but please read our Note On Cruises).
  • We cover a wide range of sports and activities at no extra cost. Add the Sports/Leisure Activities Pack for certain higher-risk activities (as listed).
  • Winter Sports Cover available.
  • 19 days cooling-off period to decide if the cover is right for you as long as your trip hasn’t started and you haven’t lodged a claim.

Why bother with travel insurance?

Life doesn’t always flow as smoothly as we’d like, and every now and then the best-laid plans can go awry. If you’re away from home and you’re suddenly presented with a crisis, it’s important to know that your travel insurance will protect you and your family.

  • Accidents and injuries: If you need emergency medical attention, we’ll ensure it’s taken care of, and that you receive the best care possible.
  • Illness: If your trip has to be cancelled due to unexpected family illness, we’ll ensure that you’re reimbursed.
  • Travel Delay: Up to $2000 for additional food and accommodation expenses if you are delayed for a covered reason by at least 6 hours. In case of a covered delay on your homeward journey, the period of insurance is automatically extended (up to a maximum of 7 days).
  • Rental vehicle excess waiver: Hiring a car? We’ll cover the excess you are required to pay up to $5,000 for damage, loss or theft of your rental vehicle if you’re the driver.
  • Lost or delayed baggage. If your carrier doesn't get your bags to your destination, we'll pay up to $1000 for the essentials you need to start your holiday.

Our responsibility as insurers isn’t to scare you - just remind you that things can - and will - go wrong, and it’s your choice to cover yourself and your family. Our friendly customer service staff will be more than happy to help you find a tailor-made insurance package that suits you, and then all you need to do is enjoy your holiday. If the worst should happen, we’ll be right behind you.

Want to see a quote?

Please note that the benefits we’ve listed below are just a summary – to really understand what you’re covered for it’s important that you read our full policy wording including terms, conditions and exclusions.