Breast screening

Regular breast screening with a mammogram saves lives by finding breast cancer early. If you are an eligible woman aged between 45 and 69, or are 70 to 74 and qualify for the screening age extension, find out about having free mammograms with BreastScreen Aotearoa. 

Sign up for free breast screening

Eligible women (those aged between 45 and 69 or those who qualify for the age range extension for women aged 70 to 74) can get regular free mammograms. For most women this will be every 2 years. For women aged 70 to 74, it will depend on your birth date.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow and eventually form a growth (tumour) which can spread within and beyond the breast. Find out about breast cancer, and things that may increase or minimise your risk.

About breast screening

Regular mammograms can save lives by finding breast cancer early, before it spreads. BreastScreen Aotearoa provides free breast screening for eligible women aged between 45 and 69, and women aged 70 to 74 who qualify for the screening age extension.

Having a mammogram: what you need to know

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. They are done to look for early signs of breast cancer. Find out about mammograms and what happens if you need to return for an assessment.

Breast screening information for women aged 70 and over

BreastScreen Aotearoa is extending the age range for free breast screening. The current age range is 45 to 69 years. Find out if you’re eligible for the age extension.

BreastScreen Aotearoa screening locations

BreastScreen Aotearoa clinics are located throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and mobile screening units travel to some areas.

Privacy: BreastScreen Aotearoa

This privacy statement outlines how we collect, store, use and share information in operating National Breast Screening System.

Screening Support Services in Aotearoa New Zealand

If you are eligible, you can access extra support to arrange or attend appointments, including from Māori or Pacific providers in some areas.

New online breast screening system

BreastScreen Aotearoa has a new National Breast Screening System called Te Puna, providing the option of arranging your screening appointments online.

Breast screening resources

All breast screening resources Opens in new tab
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Breast screening is being extended

Reviewed October 2025

Screening for breast cancer: Joining BreastScreen Aotearoa - English

Reviewed September 2025

Breast screening - Information for women aged 70 years and over

Reviewed September 2025

Having a mammogram – English - HE10114 NBSS

Reviewed January 2025

Breast screening: Information for women under 45 years of age – English - HE10110 NBSS

Reviewed January 2025

Having more tests after a mammogram – English

Reviewed July 2024

Now that you've had your mammogram – English

Reviewed May 2024

BreastScreen Aotearoa – Traditional Chinese

Reviewed April 2024

BreastScreen Aotearoa – NZSL version - NZ Sign Language

Reviewed October 2019

Contact BreastScreen Aotearoa

To contact BreastScreen Aotearoa freephone 0800 270 200

You can also email a BreastScreen Aotearoa provider in your area:

For information about the BreastScreen Aotearoa programme, email breastscreen.aotearoa@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Find your nearest BreastScreen Aotearoa clinic