Questions about the clinic and gender care
These are the questions people ask Gender Care Clinic most often. If your question is not here, call or text 021 029 37574.
Question groups on this page
Starting and self-referral
Can someone help me make contact?
Yes. You can ask a parent, partner, friend or support person to help you get in touch, or to be with you while you do.
How do I contact the clinic?
Call or text 021 029 37574, or email gendercare@gpcare.co.nz.
See how to self-refer for what to include in a first message.
What if I am not sure the clinic is right for me?
You can ask a question before deciding anything. Getting in touch does not commit you to an appointment or to any treatment.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No. Anyone can refer themselves to Gender Care Clinic by emailing, calling or texting the clinic. A referral from another healthcare provider is not required.
What we can help with
What about puberty blockers, top surgery or counselling?
Read about puberty blockers, top surgery and counselling.
Does the clinic do surgery?
No. The clinic can provide referrals for gender-affirming surgeries. The surgeries themselves are carried out by a surgical service, not at the clinic.
Can I come if I am still questioning?
Yes. People who are questioning their gender, and people who are not seeking medical care or surgery, can come to the clinic for support. You do not have to want medical treatment to make an appointment.
What does the clinic provide?
Specialist healthcare, advice and support for gender diverse people of all ages. That includes gender-affirming hormone therapy, puberty suppression, referrals for gender-affirming surgeries, mental health support and support for people who are questioning or who are not seeking medical care or surgery.
See what we can help with for the full list.
Prefer to ask in your own words?
You can call or text the clinic with a question. Texting is fine if talking on the phone feels like too much on the day. Write as much or as little as you want.
Appointments and support people
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Any patient can bring a support person to an appointment.
What happens at a first appointment?
At your first appointment, you’ll meet with our nurse, who will take the time to get to know you and understand how we can support you. You can talk about how you’re feeling, what you need, and any questions you may have.
There’s no pressure to share everything straight away, we’ll go at your pace and help you feel comfortable. We’ll also discuss your medical history and medications to help us understand your health and provide the right care.
Appointments are usually around 45 minutes.
What if I cannot come into the clinic for some reason? Is there a video link option?
Yes, we provide telehealth services for those who are unable to come in person or live far away. Please contact us for more information on this option.
I am under 18. Do I have to bring an adult?
The clinic encourages people under 18 to come with a supportive adult. Ask the clinic when you get in touch if that is difficult for you.
Age and who can come
Is there an age limit?
No. The clinic sees patients of all ages.
Do I need to live in Hawke's Bay?
No. The clinic is based in Tamatea, Napier, and sees people from across Aotearoa New Zealand. If you live far away, you can ask about telehealth.
Can whānau and friends come too?
Yes. Whānau, friends and support people are welcome, and they can ask questions as well.
Costs and funding
Is the care funded?
Please get in touch to find out if there is funding available. This will depend on the region you are from and the services you require.
Privacy and your information
What happens to the information I send?
The information you share with us is kept private and will not be shared without your permission, unless required. Where possible, we encourage working alongside your registered GP and our mental health support team, as this helps provide joined-up care. We will always talk with you first before sharing information.
Location and access
When is the clinic open?
Mondays 8:30am to 4:30pm and Wednesdays 8:30am to 2:30pm.
Where is the clinic?
Gender Care Clinic is in the Māhoe Unit at Tamatea Medical Centre, 18-20 Durham Ave, Tamatea, Napier, Hawke's Bay.
See where we are for a photograph of the unit and directions.
Referrals from health professionals
Does my patient still need to contact the clinic themselves?
If your patient hasn’t heard from us within 7 days, please get in touch with us to make sure we received your referral correctly. We’re always happy to help.
Can I refer a patient to the clinic?
Yes. Medical professionals are welcome to refer a patient to Gender Care Clinic, or to contact the clinic with a question before referring.
If you need help urgently
In an emergency, call 111. Gender Care Clinic is not an emergency service and does not monitor its phone or email at all hours.
Still have a question?
Call or text the clinic and ask. You do not need to have decided anything first.
