Cruise Insurance Cancellation: Complete Protection Guide for Kiwi Travellers

You’ve booked your dream cruise—perhaps a Pacific islands adventure, Mediterranean exploration, or an Antarctic expedition. The cabin is confirmed, excursions are planned, and excitement is building. Then life happens: a family emergency, unexpected illness, work crisis, or natural disaster threatens to derail everything.

Without proper cancellation protection, you’re facing a devastating choice: lose thousands in non-refundable deposits or travel against your better judgment. The average New Zealand cruise costs $8,000-15,000 per person. Losing that investment because you didn’t understand cancellation protection is financially catastrophic.

This comprehensive guide explains exactly how cruise insurance cancellation works, what’s covered (and what’s not), the difference between standard coverage and “Cancel For Any Reason,” and how to protect your investment completely.

🛡️ How Much Is Your Cruise Investment at Risk?

Most cruise deposits are 100% non-refundable within 90 days of departure. Without cancellation protection, you could lose $8,000-$50,000+ if you can’t travel. Proper insurance protects your entire investment for 4-8% of trip cost.

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Why Standard Travel Insurance Fails Cruise Travellers

Generic travel insurance wasn’t designed for cruises. Cruises have unique cancellation challenges that require specialised protection:

The Unique Cancellation Risks of Cruising

Cruise-Specific Risk Why It’s Unique to Cruises Financial Impact Without Coverage
Multi-component trip Cruise + flights + hotels + excursions all booked separately Lose entire investment ($10,000-$30,000+) not just cruise fare
Long booking window Booked 6-18 months in advance – lots can change Higher probability of life changes requiring cancellation
Strict cancellation policies 100% non-refundable within 90 days (vs hotels 24-48 hours) No flexibility – lose everything or travel sick/stressed
Weather dependencies Ships affected by hurricanes, storms, cyclones differently than land travel Cruise cancelled but you’ve already paid for everything
Cruise line bankruptcy Company goes out of business (rare but happens) Total loss – cruise line’s own insurance won’t cover
Pre-existing conditions Medical screening stricter for older cruisers Condition flares up – cancellation denied without waiver

🚨 Real Case: The Cost of No Cancellation Protection

Scenario: Christchurch couple, ages 58 & 62, booked 21-day Mediterranean cruise

  • Cruise fare (balcony cabin): $22,000
  • Return flights NZ-Barcelona: $5,400
  • Pre/post cruise hotels (4 nights): $1,800
  • Shore excursions (prepaid): $3,200
  • Total invested: $32,400

What happened: 65 days before departure, wife’s elderly mother suffered stroke requiring full-time care

Cruise line cancellation policy: 100% non-refundable within 90 days

Without cancellation insurance:

  • Lost cruise fare: $22,000 (0% refund)
  • Lost flight change fees: $1,200 (couldn’t change dates)
  • Lost hotels: $1,800 (non-refundable bookings)
  • Lost excursions: $3,200 (cruise line keeps payment)
  • Total loss: $28,200

With comprehensive cancellation insurance:

  • Policy cost: $1,620 (5% of trip)
  • Claim filed: Caring for immediate family member = covered reason
  • Reimbursement: $32,400 (100% of non-refundable costs)
  • Net saved: $30,780

The $1,620 insurance investment saved them $30,780.

Understanding Cancellation Protection: What’s Actually Covered

Not all cancellation reasons are covered. Understanding the difference between standard covered reasons and “Cancel For Any Reason” is critical.

Standard Covered Reasons for Cancellation

Most comprehensive cruise insurance policies cover these specific scenarios:

Covered Reason Details & Requirements Documentation Needed
Illness, Injury, Death You, traveling companion, or immediate family member (spouse, children, parents, siblings, in-laws) Doctor’s certificate, medical records, death certificate
Pre-existing Condition Flare-up ONLY if you purchased pre-existing condition waiver within 10-21 days of deposit Medical records showing condition was stable, new diagnosis documents
Employment Termination Involuntary termination (not resignation, not for cause), employed >1 year at same company Termination letter, proof of employment duration
Employment Transfer Mandatory transfer >250km, after insurance purchased Transfer notice from employer
Jury Duty / Court Subpoena Received after insurance purchased, during trip dates Official court notice
Natural Disaster at Home Home becomes uninhabitable (fire, flood, earthquake) requiring your presence Insurance claim, emergency services report, photos
Natural Disaster at Destination Hurricane, earthquake, etc. making destination inaccessible or dangerous Official government warnings, travel advisories
Terrorist Incident At destination within 30 days of departure, not already known when you booked News reports, official incident confirmation
Cruise Line / Airline Bankruptcy Supplier ceases operations (supplier default coverage) Bankruptcy announcement, booking confirmation
Military Duty Called to active duty or leave cancelled Official military orders
Pregnancy Complications Doctor advises against travel (usually after 24 weeks) Doctor’s letter advising against travel
Quarantine / Government Mandate Government-ordered quarantine preventing travel Official quarantine order

What’s NOT Covered (Standard Policies)

Common exclusions that surprise travellers:

  • Change of mind – Simply deciding not to go
  • Work schedule changes – Boss needs you (not forced transfer)
  • Financial reasons – Can’t afford trip anymore
  • Fear of travel – Anxiety about flying, cruising, etc.
  • Family event scheduling – Wedding, graduation scheduled later
  • Better deal found – Found cheaper cruise elsewhere
  • Friend cancelling – Travel companion backs out (unless they have covered reason)
  • Pre-existing conditions – Without waiver purchased early
  • Known events – Hurricane season in Caribbean (you knew the risk)
  • Government warnings issued before purchase – Destination already on “do not travel” list
  • Voluntary resignation – You quit your job
  • Foreseeable circumstances – Knew about event when booking

📋 Understand What’s Covered Before You Buy

Don’t assume your situation is covered. Compare policies side-by-side to see exactly which cancellation reasons each insurer covers. Some are more generous than others with covered reasons lists.

Compare Covered Reasons by Provider →

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR): The Ultimate Flexibility

CFAR is the premium upgrade that covers cancellation for reasons NOT in standard policies—including simple change of mind.

How CFAR Works

Feature Standard Coverage CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason)
Covered Reasons Specific list (12-20 reasons) ANY reason – no explanation needed
Reimbursement 100% of non-refundable costs 50-75% of trip cost
Purchase Window Anytime before departure (best within 21 days) MUST purchase within 10-21 days of initial deposit
Trip Cost Coverage Any amount Must insure 100% of trip cost
Cancellation Timing Anytime before departure Must cancel 48-72 hours before departure
Premium Increase Base rate +40-60% more expensive
Documentation Required Proof of covered reason None – no explanation needed
Availability All policies Select providers only (Allianz Global, some US insurers)

CFAR Cost Analysis

Trip Cost Base Premium Premium + CFAR Extra Cost CFAR Payout (75%)
$5,000 $280 $395 +$115 $3,750
$10,000 $520 $730 +$210 $7,500
$15,000 $780 $1,095 +$315 $11,250
$25,000 $1,300 $1,820 +$520 $18,750
$35,000 $1,820 $2,550 +$730 $26,250

When CFAR Is Worth The Extra Cost

CFAR makes sense if:

  • ✅ You’re booking 9-18 months in advance (lots can change)
  • ✅ Your trip costs $15,000+ per person (expensive investment)
  • ✅ You have unpredictable work schedule or health
  • ✅ You’re booking during uncertain times (pandemic, economic instability)
  • ✅ You want absolute flexibility with no questions asked
  • ✅ You’re elderly and worried about health changes
  • ✅ You’re booking for multiple people (if one backs out, all might)
  • ✅ Peace of mind is worth the 40-60% premium increase to you

Skip CFAR if:

  • ❌ You’re booking close to departure (within 3-4 months)
  • ❌ Trip is inexpensive ($5,000 or less)
  • ❌ You’re very confident you’ll travel
  • ❌ Budget is tight and you can accept standard covered reasons
  • ❌ You’re young, healthy, with stable employment

💡 CFAR Reality Check

Important: CFAR only reimburses 50-75% of your trip cost, NOT 100%.

Example scenario:

  • Trip cost: $20,000
  • Base insurance: $1,040
  • CFAR upgrade: +$520 (total $1,560)
  • You cancel with CFAR: Get back 75% = $15,000
  • Your net loss: $5,000 trip cost + $1,560 insurance = $6,560 loss

Compare to:

  • No insurance: Lose entire $20,000
  • Standard insurance with non-covered reason: Lose entire $20,000

CFAR saves you $13,440 even though you only get 75% back.

Cruise Line Cancellation Policies: What You’re Up Against

Understanding cruise line cancellation penalties shows why insurance is essential:

Typical Cruise Line Cancellation Schedule

Days Before Departure Cancellation Penalty What You Lose (Example: $10,000 cruise)
121+ days Deposit only (typically $500-1,000 per person) $500-$1,000
120-90 days 50% of total fare $5,000
89-60 days 75% of total fare $7,500
59 days or less 100% of total fare (no refund) $10,000 (everything)
Suite/Premium cabins Often 100% penalty starts at 90-120 days Even stricter – lose everything sooner

Plus, you also lose:

  • Flights (change fees $200-1,200+ or total loss)
  • Hotels (often non-refundable)
  • Shore excursions booked through cruise line (100% non-refundable)
  • Specialty dining packages (non-refundable)
  • Beverage packages (non-refundable)
  • Wifi packages (non-refundable)

Real total loss example:

  • Cruise fare: $12,000
  • Flights: $3,200
  • Hotels: $1,400
  • Excursions: $2,800
  • Onboard packages: $1,200
  • Total loss if cancelling within 60 days: $20,600

🎯 Protect Your Entire Investment

Cruise cancellation insurance costs 4-8% of trip cost but protects 100%. A $15,000 cruise protected by $780 insurance saves you from losing everything. Compare providers and get instant quotes now.

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Cruise Line Insurance vs Third-Party Cancellation Coverage

Should you buy cancellation coverage from your cruise line or a third-party insurer?

Feature Cruise Line Cancellation Third-Party Insurance
What’s Covered Cruise fare only (not flights/hotels) Everything: cruise + flights + hotels + excursions
Covered Reasons Limited list, often restrictive Comprehensive list, more generous
Refund Type Often future cruise credit (not cash) Cash refund
Cruise Line Bankruptcy ❌ NOT covered (their own insurance) Covered (supplier default)
Medical Coverage Limited or none included Comprehensive medical + evacuation
CFAR Available Rarely (cruise credit only if offered) Yes from select providers (cash refund)
Pre-existing Conditions Often excluded or limited waiver Full waiver available (if purchased early)
Convenience ✅ Very easy – one click at booking Requires separate purchase/research
Cost ($10k cruise, age 55) $650-$850 $480-$620 (better value)
Best Choice ❌ Convenient but limited Superior protection + better value

Bottom line: Third-party cancellation insurance provides superior protection for equal or lower cost. Only choose cruise line insurance if you’ve missed the optimal purchase window and need quick coverage.

Critical Timing: When to Buy Cancellation Insurance

The Optimal Purchase Window

Purchase Timing Benefits Available What You Lose If You Wait
Within 10-21 days of deposit
(OPTIMAL)
✅ Pre-existing condition waiver
✅ CFAR eligibility
✅ Supplier default coverage
✅ Full trip cost protection from day 1
✅ Best rates
Nothing – maximum benefits
22+ days after deposit ✅ Standard cancellation coverage
✅ Medical/evacuation
✅ Trip interruption
❌ No pre-existing waiver
❌ No CFAR
Pre-existing conditions automatically excluded
Can’t add CFAR for flexibility
Not protected during deposit→purchase gap
At final payment (60-90 days before) ✅ Standard coverage only
❌ Limited pre-existing options
❌ No CFAR
❌ Potentially higher rates
All time-sensitive benefits
Months of unprotected investment
May pay more for less coverage
Close to departure (<30 days) ⚠️ Very limited options
⚠️ Known events excluded
❌ Expensive
❌ Minimal benefits
Nearly everything
Any known circumstances excluded
Hurricane season = no weather coverage

⏰ The 10-Day Rule: Why It Matters

Most insurers require purchase within 10-21 days of initial deposit to unlock:

  • Pre-existing condition waivers: 35+ conditions automatically covered if stable
  • CFAR eligibility: Cancel for any reason option available
  • Supplier default: Protected if cruise line goes bankrupt
  • Time-sensitive coverage: Hurricane, known events properly handled

Example: You book a Caribbean cruise in December for September departure (9 months out)

  • Buy within 10 days: Hurricane season covered (wasn’t “known” yet at specific dates)
  • Buy in August: Hurricane season excluded (already in hurricane season = “foreseeable”)

Set a reminder: Purchase insurance within 10 days of making your deposit!

How to Choose the Right Cancellation Coverage

Step-by-Step Selection Process

Step 1: Calculate Your Total Investment

Don’t just insure cruise fare – include everything:

  • ☑️ Cruise fare (cabin + taxes + fees)
  • ☑️ Flights (international + domestic connections)
  • ☑️ Pre-cruise hotels
  • ☑️ Post-cruise hotels
  • ☑️ Shore excursions (prepaid)
  • ☑️ Specialty dining packages
  • ☑️ Beverage packages
  • ☑️ Wifi packages
  • ☑️ Spa treatments (prepaid)
  • ☑️ Travel agent fees
  • ☑️ Any other non-refundable expenses

Step 2: Assess Your Personal Risk

Your Situation Cancellation Risk Level Recommended Coverage
Over 65, pre-existing conditions High Comprehensive + pre-existing waiver (buy within 10 days)
Booking 12+ months ahead Medium-High Comprehensive + consider CFAR
Expensive cruise ($15,000+/person) High Comprehensive + CFAR strongly recommended
Unpredictable work schedule Medium Standard comprehensive + consider CFAR
Young, healthy, stable job Low-Medium Standard comprehensive coverage
Traveling during hurricane season Medium-High Buy early (within 10 days) for weather coverage

Step 3: Compare Policies

Essential questions to ask:

  • What are ALL the covered reasons for cancellation?
  • Is there a pre-existing condition waiver? What’s the purchase window?
  • Is CFAR available? What percentage does it reimburse?
  • Does it cover cruise fare only or all trip components?
  • Is supplier default (cruise line bankruptcy) covered?
  • What’s the claims process and average processing time?
  • Are there any exclusions specific to cruise cancellations?
  • What documentation is required for claims?

Step 4: Verify Provider Reputation

Check:

  • Financial strength ratings (AM Best: A- or higher)
  • Customer reviews (Trustpilot, Consumer NZ)
  • Claims approval rates
  • Average claim processing time
  • 24/7 emergency assistance availability
  • Years in business

🔍 Compare Cancellation Coverage Instantly

See side-by-side comparison of cancellation coverage from New Zealand’s top insurers. Compare covered reasons, CFAR availability, pre-existing waivers, and costs in 60 seconds.

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Filing a Cancellation Claim: What You Need to Know

Required Documentation by Cancellation Reason

Cancellation Reason Documents Required Processing Time
Illness/Injury Doctor’s certificate, medical records, diagnosis, treatment plan 10-21 business days
Death Death certificate, proof of relationship 14-30 business days
Job Loss Termination letter, proof of employment duration, unemployment benefit application 21-30 business days
Natural Disaster Emergency services report, insurance claim, photos of damage, official warnings 14-21 business days
Jury Duty Official court summons showing dates 7-14 business days
CFAR None – just cancel 48-72 hours before departure 14-21 business days

Claims Process Steps

  1. Contact insurer immediately when cancellation reason occurs (before cancelling trip)
  2. Get claim form from insurer’s website or customer service
  3. Gather documentation specific to your cancellation reason
  4. Cancel trip with cruise line/airline and get written confirmation of cancellation
  5. Collect all booking confirmations showing amounts paid
  6. Submit complete claim with all supporting documents
  7. Follow up weekly if not receiving updates
  8. Receive reimbursement (direct deposit or check)

Common Claim Denials & How to Avoid

  • Pre-existing condition without waiver: Purchase within 10-21 days of deposit
  • Known circumstance: Don’t book trip knowing of issue that could cause cancellation
  • Incomplete documentation: Submit everything requested first time
  • Non-covered reason: Read policy carefully before purchasing
  • Didn’t insure full trip cost: Include all components in insured amount
  • Missed purchase window: Buy within optimal timeframe
  • Cancelled too close (CFAR): Cancel 48-72 hours before as required

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Cancellation Insurance

Q1: What does cruise cancellation insurance cover?

A1: Cruise cancellation insurance reimburses non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel for a covered reason before departure. Standard covered reasons include: illness, injury or death (you, family, travel companion), employment termination (involuntary, >1 year employment), natural disasters (home or destination), jury duty/court subpoena, military duty call-up, cruise line/airline bankruptcy, and terrorism at destination within 30 days. Comprehensive policies cover 12-20 specific scenarios. “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) upgrades allow cancellation for ANY reason but only reimburse 50-75% instead of 100%.

Q2: When is the best time to buy cruise cancellation insurance?

A2: Purchase within 10-21 days of making your initial cruise deposit. This critical timing unlocks: (1) Pre-existing condition waivers (automatic coverage for stable conditions), (2) CFAR eligibility (cancel for any reason option), (3) Supplier default coverage (cruise line bankruptcy), (4) Protection from the moment of purchase (covers unforeseen events during long booking period), (5) Best rates and most comprehensive coverage. Waiting until final payment or close to departure means losing these time-sensitive benefits while paying the same or higher premiums for inferior coverage.

Q3: Is “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) worth the extra cost?

A3: CFAR is worth it for: expensive cruises ($15,000+ per person), bookings 9-18 months in advance (lots can change), travelers with unpredictable schedules or health, elderly travelers worried about sudden health changes, and those wanting absolute flexibility. CFAR costs 40-60% more than base insurance but reimburses 50-75% of trip cost for ANY cancellation reason (vs 0% without it). Example: $20,000 trip, CFAR costs +$520, but saves you $15,000 (75% back) if you cancel vs losing entire $20,000. Skip CFAR if booking close to departure, trip under $5,000, or you’re very confident you’ll travel.

Q4: Does cruise cancellation insurance cover cruise line bankruptcy?

A4: Third-party cruise insurance typically includes “supplier default” coverage protecting you if the cruise line, airline, or tour operator goes bankrupt or ceases operations. This is CRITICAL because cruise line’s own insurance doesn’t cover their own bankruptcy. However, coverage must be purchased BEFORE any financial difficulty is publicly known. Some policies require purchase within 10-21 days of deposit for supplier default coverage. Always verify this coverage is explicitly included – it’s not universal across all policies. This protection covers 100% of your prepaid, non-refundable costs.

Q5: What happens if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

A5: Pre-existing conditions are automatically EXCLUDED from standard policies unless you qualify for a waiver. To get waiver: (1) Purchase insurance within 10-21 days of initial deposit, (2) Be medically cleared to travel at purchase time, (3) Insure 100% of trip cost, (4) Condition must be stable (no treatment changes in past 60-90 days). About 30-35 common conditions (controlled diabetes, managed high blood pressure, stable asthma) are automatically covered with waiver. Complex conditions may require medical assessment. Without waiver, if you cancel due to condition flare-up, your ENTIRE claim is denied – losing everything.

Q6: Does cancellation insurance cover cruise fare only or everything?

A6: This depends on which insurance you buy. Cruise line insurance typically covers ONLY the cruise fare – you lose separately booked flights, hotels, excursions. Third-party insurance covers EVERYTHING if you list all components in your total insured trip cost: cruise fare, international/domestic flights, pre/post cruise hotels, prepaid shore excursions, specialty dining packages, beverage packages, wifi, onboard credits, spa treatments, travel agent fees. Always insure your complete trip cost across all components – under-insuring means partial reimbursement only.

Q7: Can I cancel if I’m just scared to travel or changed my mind?

A7: Standard policies: NO – simple change of mind, fear of travel, or deciding to spend money elsewhere are NOT covered reasons. You lose your entire trip investment. CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason) upgrade: YES – cancel for literally any reason including fear, change of mind, or no reason at all. BUT you only get back 50-75% of trip cost (not 100%), must purchase within 10-21 days of deposit, must insure 100% of trip, and must cancel 48-72 hours before departure. CFAR costs 40-60% more but provides ultimate flexibility.

Q8: How much does cruise cancellation insurance cost?

A8: Standard cancellation insurance costs 4-8% of total trip cost. Examples: $5,000 cruise: $200-400, $10,000 cruise: $400-800, $20,000 cruise: $800-1,600. Cost increases with: age (seniors pay more), trip duration (longer = higher), destination (remote = more expensive), pre-existing conditions (may increase 20-100%), CFAR upgrade (+40-60%). Comprehensive third-party insurance typically costs LESS than cruise line insurance while providing superior coverage. Young, healthy travelers pay 4-5% while seniors with conditions pay 7-10%.

Q9: Should I buy cancellation insurance from the cruise line or third-party?

A9: Third-party insurance is superior for most travelers: covers ALL trip components (cruise + flights + hotels) not just cruise fare, includes cruise line bankruptcy protection (cruise line’s insurance doesn’t), offers cash refunds not just cruise credits, provides comprehensive medical/evacuation coverage, has CFAR options available (rarely from cruise lines), includes better pre-existing condition waivers, and typically costs LESS ($100-400 savings). Only choose cruise line if: you’ve missed optimal purchase window and need quick coverage, or you value extreme convenience over comprehensive protection and better value.

Q10: What documents do I need to file a cancellation claim?

A10: Required documents vary by cancellation reason: (1) Medical: Doctor’s certificate, medical records, diagnosis, treatment notes, (2) Death: Death certificate, proof of relationship, (3) Job loss: Termination letter, employment duration proof, (4) Natural disaster: Emergency services report, photos, official warnings, (5) Jury duty: Official court summons, (6) All claims: Original booking confirmations, payment receipts, cancellation confirmation from cruise line/airline, policy certificate, completed claim form. Submit complete documentation first time – incomplete claims cause delays. Contact insurer BEFORE cancelling trip to confirm exact requirements. Keep copies of everything submitted. Most claims process in 10-30 business days with complete documentation.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Cruise Investment

Your cruise represents months of anticipation, careful planning, and significant financial investment. Cancellation insurance isn’t an optional extra—it’s essential protection that transforms potential disaster into manageable inconvenience.

The mathematics are compelling:

  • Average cruise investment: $8,000-15,000 per person
  • Cancellation insurance cost: 4-8% ($320-1,200)
  • Risk without coverage: Lose 50-100% of investment ($4,000-$15,000+)
  • Protection with coverage: Recover 100% (standard) or 75% (CFAR)

The small investment in cancellation protection could save you from losing thousands—or tens of thousands—if life’s unexpected events force you to change plans.

Your action plan:

  1. Calculate total trip cost (cruise + flights + hotels + excursions + everything)
  2. Set reminder to purchase within 10 days of deposit
  3. Compare at least 3 third-party providers
  4. Verify covered reasons match your risk profile
  5. Consider CFAR if booking far ahead or expensive trip
  6. Purchase comprehensive coverage with pre-existing waiver if needed
  7. Save all policy documents and emergency contact numbers

With proper cancellation protection in place, you can plan your cruise with confidence—knowing that if circumstances change, your investment is protected. That peace of mind is priceless.

⚓ Protect Your Cruise Investment Today

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✓ See all covered cancellation reasons
✓ Compare CFAR availability and costs
✓ Verify pre-existing condition waivers
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✓ Expert guidance on optimal coverage

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Disclaimer: This cruise insurance cancellation guide provides general information for New Zealand travellers. All insurance policies have specific terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits, and exclusions that vary by provider. Covered reasons for cancellation, reimbursement percentages, documentation requirements, and claim processing times differ between insurers. “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) availability and terms vary significantly – not all providers offer this option. Information provided is accurate as of December 2024. Always read the Policy Disclosure Statement and Policy Wording carefully before purchasing any insurance product, paying particular attention to the covered reasons section and exclusions. For personalised advice specific to your cruise plans, health conditions, and circumstances, contact licensed insurance advisers or providers directly. CruiseInsurance.co.nz is an insurance comparison service and broker operating in New Zealand. We receive commissions from insurance providers but maintain editorial independence in our coverage comparisons and recommendations.