Common questions on the COVID-19 vaccine

Why should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

It is the most powerful way to protect against COVID-19. It reduces the risk of catching COVID and getting really sick. High vaccination rates also makes it harder for the virus to spread through our communities and enables the health system to provide care for the other things we need it for.

How can I get the COVID-19 vaccine at Tend?

  1. Book an in-clinic appointment via the Tend app.

  2. On the day of your appointment, you will be contacted to run through some COVID-19 screening questions.

  3. All patients will be asked to remain in their vehicle or on foot in our car park. Once you have arrived, please check in on the app or give us a call on 0800 HEY TEND (439 8363) and your clinician will come out to you.

  4. During your appointment, you will be asked to provide your details and give your consent. A fully trained vaccinator will give you the vaccine in your upper arm.

  5. You will need to stay for 15 minutes after being vaccinated.

  6. Your second vaccination should happen three weeks after your first dose or as soon as possible after that. You can book your second appointment via the Tend app or you can ask our customer experience team to arrange this for you!

What are the common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

All vaccines have side effects. Common side effects of the Pfizer vaccine may include:

  • pain or swelling at the injection site

  • feeling tired or fatigued

  • headache

  • muscle aches

  • chills

  • joint pain

  • fever

  • redness at the injection site

  • nausea

For more information on side effects.

How do I get my COVID-19 vaccine pass?

The Vaccine Pass allows you access to places in Aotearoa that require proof of vaccination status. Download your COVID-19 vaccine pass.

Alternative vaccines

AstraZeneca is the alternative vaccine available in New Zealand for people aged 18 and older who cannot receive the Pfizer vaccine and for people who would like a different option. This vaccine is only available at selected sites. To book your appointment visit BookMyVaccine.nz

Can Tend Doctors provide COVID-19 vaccination

Exemptions for mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations are issued by the Ministry of Health (MOH) according to these guidelines.

If you think you qualify for an exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination, please book an appointment with one of our GPs to see if you meet the criteria. If your GP assesses that you fall under the exemption guidelines, your request for an exemption will be submitted by them to the MOH on your behalf.

Please note, your GP does not have the final say on whether this exemption is approved, that is up to the MOH. You should be aware that the criteria for exemption is very narrow and it's expected that a very small number of people will qualify on medical grounds. This is due to the vaccine being given safely and the benefits of the vaccine to protect you and your whanau. Find out more about the research and how the vaccine works.

If you have any concerns or wish to talk to someone about the COVID-19 vaccination our doctors would love to talk to you. Contact our customer experience team or download the Tend app to book an appointment.

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