Is private radiation therapy for cancer an option for you?

Expert care, right when you need it most.

Auckland Radiation Oncology private radiation therapy care

Knowing Your Options The Benefits Patient Stories FAQs Your Next Steps Download Brochure

If you've been diagnosed with cancer, it's normal to feel overwhelmed or anxious.

With expert care, convenient locations, and a focus on what matters most, Auckland Radiation Oncology (ARO) is by your side, so you can look ahead with confidence and hope.

There is no waitlist. Most patients can see a radiation oncologist within one to two weeks for an initial consultation to begin treatment planning.

If you have health insurance, your policy is likely to cover private radiation therapy with us.

Talk to your specialist or GP about a referral for treatment at ARO.
Download our brochure to take with you.

Download Brochure

Why choose private radiation therapy for cancer?

If you have health insurance, your policy will likely include full or partial cover for radiation therapy at Auckland Radiation Oncology. As the Auckland region's only private treatment provider, we offer a range of benefits so that you can move forward with hope and confidence.

A fast route to starting radiation therapy for cancer

We understand that waiting for cancer treatment is stressful and overwhelming. Rest assured, at ARO you will usually be seen by a radiation oncologist within 1-2 weeks of referral and begin treatment in as little as three weeks, depending on the complexity of your treatment planning.

State-of-the-art technology

Auckland Radiation Oncology offers access to world-class technology, including CyberKnife and the latest Elekta treatment technology, helping target cancer accurately while protecting healthy tissue, which is vitally important to health outcomes.

Specialist expertise and care

We have 18 specialist radiation oncologists and a large team of support staff who are committed to giving you the best care throughout your treatment at ARO. Each radiation oncologist has dedicated expertise in specific cancer types, enabling us to provide highly specialised care across a wide range of cancers.

Treatment at ARO is not just about your radiation therapy appointment, it starts from the first contact we have with you, through to your experience in our waiting rooms, and with our medical and support teams. We want you to have the best experience possible while undergoing your treatment.

A choice of two locations

Daily treatment can be a big commitment, so having sites in Epsom and on the North Shore gives patients more choice. With free parking at both, it's about making treatment as easy and convenient as possible, helping you focus your energy on getting through treatment and looking ahead.

Care when you need it: Patient Stories

Watch some of our patients share their experience of treatment at Auckland Radiation Oncology.

Frequently asked questions

I have cancer - will I need radiation therapy?

Not everyone requires radiation therapy for cancer. Whether radiation therapy is recommended depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and your individual treatment plan. Your specialist or radiation oncologist will advise whether radiation therapy is appropriate for you.

What sort of cancers do you treat?

Auckland Radiation Oncology treats a wide range of cancers, including radiation therapy for breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, skin cancer and gastrointestinal cancer, as well as many other tumour types. Treatment recommendations are individualised for each patient. Click here for more information on the types of cancer we treat at ARO.

I am currently being treated for cancer in the public system - can I access private radiation therapy treatment through Auckland Radiation Oncology?

If you were diagnosed or had surgery via the public health system but have not yet started your radiation therapy treatment then yes, you can choose to move from public to private radiation therapy. This requires a referral from your GP or specialist. If you are already on a public waitlist, we recommend remaining on it while you consider your options and determine which pathway is right for you.

Why would I choose to have my radiation therapy for cancer at Auckland Radiation Oncology rather than somewhere else?

At ARO you can usually see a radiation oncologist within 1 to 2 weeks of referral, allowing your treatment planning to begin without delay. We recognise how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis is and how stressful waiting can be, so we focus on providing timely access to care, advanced treatment technology, and highly personalised specialist support throughout your treatment journey. Click here for more information on our treatment techniques.

How can I make an appointment at Auckland Radiation Oncology?

To be treated at ARO, you will need a referral from your GP or specialist. Once a referral is received, our team will guide you through the consultation and treatment planning process. You may find it helpful to download our brochure and take it with you to discuss with your GP or specialist. You can download the brochure here.

Why do I need a referral to Auckland Radiation Oncology?

Radiation therapy is part of a bigger treatment plan, so it's important your GP or specialist refers you. That way, we have a full understanding of your situation and can make sure the care is right for you. If you prefer a specific doctor at ARO, just let them know. Your care team and radiation oncologist will work closely with you every step of the way, so you can feel confident you're in the right hands from the very beginning.

How long does it take to start treatment?

To be treated at ARO you will need a referral from your GP or specialist. Once a referral is received, our team will guide you through the consultation and treatment planning process. You will typically be seen by a radiation oncologist within 1-2 weeks of a referral with treatment often starting within about 3 weeks. In some cases, this may take a little longer depending on the complexity of your treatment plan, but every effort is made to begin your treatment as promptly as possible.

You may find it helpful to download our brochure and take it with you to discuss with your GP or specialist. You can download the brochure here.

I live outside Auckland - can I be treated at Auckland Radiation Oncology?

Yes. ARO treats patients from across New Zealand. Some patients travel to Auckland for specialist radiation therapy and arrange accommodation nearby during treatment. You will need to check with your insurer to see if accommodation and travel costs are covered by your policy. Alternatively, you might be eligible to stay at Domain Lodge, the Cancer Society's home-away-from-home for patients travelling to Auckland for cancer appointments or treatment. Find out more on Domain Lodge here.

What does it cost to be treated at Auckland Radiation Oncology?

The cost of private radiation therapy for cancer varies depending on the type and length of treatment. In most cases, patients with health insurance will have some or all the cost of treatment covered, subject to policy terms and eligibility.

Will my insurance cover the cost of being treated through Auckland Radiation Oncology?

Most private health insurance policies in New Zealand cover radiation therapy for cancer, provided certain criteria are met. Coverage depends on individual policy terms. Patients should check with their insurer and discuss their options with their specialist.

Can I be treated at Auckland Radiation Oncology if I don't have health insurance?

Yes. You can access treatment with us without health insurance, but you will need to fund the cost of your treatment yourself. You will still need to get a referral from your GP or specialist before starting treatment at Auckland Radiation Oncology.