Absent from New Zealand more than 28 days in any 52 week period

Generally, a benefit cannot be paid for more than 28 days in any 52 week period. However there are limited circumstances where a benefit can be paid for more than 28 days in a 52 week period.

These circumstances are:

• travel is required for an approved reason and, either:
  • it is the client's first absence within 52 weeks and the permitted reason the client needs to be absent from New Zealand necessitates a period longer than 28 days or
  • the client has had other prior approved absences within the 52 week period and they require further approved absences which will require them to be absent from New Zealand for more than 28 days in any 52 week period
• the client is absent from New Zealand for an approved travel reason and their return is prevented by a new circumstance which will require them to be absent for more than 28 days in a 52 week period or
• the client is travelling to receive support from a family member (including other person who is treated by the client as a member of the client's family) who is residing overseas