Last updated: 2 February 2026 | Independently verified by NZ pet insurance experts
Tower Pet Insurance
New Zealand's most established insurer with 155+ years experience and multi-policy bundle discounts up to 15%.
Monthly from (Standard)
Multi-Policy Discount
Years in NZ Insurance
Claim Processing
Why Choose Tower?
Tower Insurance is one of New Zealand's oldest and most trusted insurers, founded in 1869. With over 155 years of experience in the NZ insurance market, they bring unmatched financial stability and local expertise. Their standout feature is multi-policy discounts - bundle your pet insurance with home or car insurance for up to 15% off.
155 Years Experience
NZ's most established insurer
Bundle & Save
Up to 15% multi-policy discount
4-Day Claims
Fast digital processing
Financial Strength
Trusted NZ institution
Tower Insurance Plans
Standard Cover
Waiting period: 48 hours accidents, 21 days illness
What's Covered:
- ✓ 80% back on eligible vet bills
- ✓ Accident coverage (from 48 hours)
- ✓ Illness coverage (from day 22)
- ✓ Surgery and hospitalization
- ✓ Medications and prescriptions
- ✓ Diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood)
- ✓ Specialist referrals
- ✓ Emergency care
- ✓ Euthanasia costs
Not Included:
- ✗ Dental illness
- ✗ Alternative therapies
- ✗ Routine care
- ✗ Behavioral treatments
Deluxe Cover
Waiting period: 48 hours accidents, 21 days illness
What's Covered:
- ✓ 80% back on eligible vet bills
- ✓ All Standard Cover features
- ✓ Dental care (accidents & illness)
- ✓ Alternative treatments
- ✓ Behavioral therapy
- ✓ Routine care allowance ($200)
- ✓ Third party liability ($1M)
- ✓ Emergency boarding
- ✓ Lost pet advertising
Not Included:
- ✗ Pre-existing conditions
- ✗ Breeding costs
- ✗ Cosmetic procedures
Real Claim Examples
See how Tower pet insurance pays out on common veterinary conditions. All examples assume 80% reimbursement after the waiting period.
| Condition | Vet Cost | Tower Pays | You Pay | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACL Surgery | $4,800 | $3,840 | $960 + excess | 80% reimbursement |
| Skin Allergy | $750 | $600 | $150 + excess | After 21-day wait |
| Dental Disease | $1,100 | $880 | $220 + excess | Deluxe plan only |
| Fracture Repair | $3,200 | $2,560 | $640 + excess | After 48-hour wait |
* Examples based on $100 excess. Actual payouts depend on your policy terms and conditions.
Tower vs Other NZ Providers
| Feature | Tower | Southern Cross | PD Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Limit | $15,000 | $15,000 | $20,000 |
| Reimbursement | 80% | 80% | 80% |
| Min Excess | $100 | $0 (Plus) | $0 |
| Multi-Policy Discount | Up to 15% | No | No |
| Established | 1869 (155 years) | 1961 (65 years) | 2015 (10 years) |
| Claim Processing | 4 days | 2 days | 5 days |
Pros
- ✓ Multi-policy discounts (up to 15%)
Bundle with home/car for significant savings
- ✓ 155 years NZ experience
Most established insurer in New Zealand
- ✓ Fast claims (4 days)
Streamlined digital processing
- ✓ Choose any NZ vet
No network restrictions nationwide
Cons
- ! No $0 excess option
Minimum $100 excess required
- ! Lower max limit ($15K)
PD Insurance offers $20K
- ! No direct vet payment
Must pay upfront and claim back
- ! Age limits for enrollment
Dogs under 8, cats under 10 for new policies
Tower Pet Insurance FAQs
What makes Tower's pet insurance unique?
Tower is one of NZ's oldest insurers (est. 1869) with 155+ years of experience. They offer unique multi-policy discounts when bundling with home or car insurance, a comprehensive digital claims process, and the backing of a financially strong NZ company.
How do Tower's multi-policy discounts work?
If you already have Tower home, contents, or car insurance, you can save up to 15% on your pet insurance premium. Additionally, insure multiple pets and receive 10% off each additional pet. These discounts can be combined for maximum savings.
How do I make a claim with Tower pet insurance?
Tower offers a streamlined digital claims process through their online portal or mobile app. Submit your vet invoice, clinical notes, and claim form. Claims are typically processed within 4 business days - faster than many competitors.
Does Tower cover pre-existing conditions?
Like most insurers, Tower doesn't cover pre-existing conditions. However, if your pet has been symptom-free for 18 months, some conditions may be reassessed for coverage. It's worth discussing specific conditions with Tower directly.
What are Tower's waiting periods?
Tower has a 48-hour waiting period for accidents and 21 days for illness. Cruciate ligament conditions have a 6-month waiting period. These are standard in the industry and help keep premiums affordable.
Can I use any vet with Tower pet insurance?
Yes, Tower allows you to visit any registered veterinarian in New Zealand. There's no restricted network - choose your preferred vet, specialist, or emergency clinic anywhere in NZ.
What discounts does Tower offer?
Tower offers: multi-pet discount (10% per additional pet), multi-policy discount (up to 15% when bundling), online management discount, and loyalty discounts for long-term customers. These can significantly reduce your premium.
Does Tower have age limits for pets?
Pets must be at least 8 weeks old. Dogs must be under 8 years and cats under 10 years for new policies. Once insured, coverage continues for life - no upper age limit as long as you maintain continuous cover.
Learn More About Pet Insurance
Get Your Tower Quote
Bundle with your existing Tower insurance for up to 15% off