Welcome to the new KidsHealth website! See what is new.

Header

Low or no data? Visit zero.govt.nz, search for KidsHealth, and click on our logo to return and browse for free. Need help?

For free medical advice call Healthline 0800 611 116. Healthline provides a 24 hour, 7 days a week, over-the-phone health service. For emergencies call 111.  

What to do if you think your child has been poisoned

Call 0800 764 766

Do not try to make your child vomit or give food or liquid until you have been given advice.

When to dial 111

Phone 111 within New Zealand for an ambulance (use the appropriate emergency number in other countries) if:

  • your child is unconscious or having difficulty breathing
  • you are worried that your child looks very ill 
  • the Poisons Centre has advised you to do so

Wait for advice 

Do not try to make your child vomit or give food or liquid until you have been given advice.

Button batteries

Go to hospital if your child has swallowed or inserted a button battery

A photograph of 3 small button batteries

If you suspect your child has swallowed or inserted a button battery, act immediately. Go to your nearest hospital emergency department. 

Find out more about the dangers of button batteries.

Button Battery Dangers For Children

High powered magnets

Go to hospital if your child has swallowed high powered magnets

Photo of a stack small circular magnets

If you suspect your child has swallowed small high powered magnets, act immediately. Go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

Find out more about the dangers of magnets.

Magnet Dangers For Children

Remember

  • remain calm
  • bring the product container of the poisoning agent to the phone if you can, so you can provide any information asked by the poison information officer
Acknowledgements

Photographs: iStock

Last reviewed
Shielded site