Travel Insurance / NHI?

Hi everyone, I'm moving to Japan from NZ on a WHV in a couple of weeks. I've researched high and low but can't find the answer I am looking for.

My plan:

• arrive in Tokyo 14/10

• start work in Niseko 21/10

• start snowboarding in Dec (roughly)

• finish snowboarding sometime in March (roughly)

• work contract ends in March

• travel down Japan, pick up another job along the way

• at the end of my 12 month WHV, start travelling SE Asia

So, I understand I am required to join Japan's NHI – happy with this.

Questions:

• Do I NEED my own travel insurance? If so, do I just get 2 weeks worth to cover me until NHI is sorted?

• Am I covered by NHI if I have an accident/injury from snowboarding? I am a pretty careful person, and won't be doing any backcountry..

• If I am not covered by NHI for accidents/injuries from snowboarding, is it smart to just get my own travel insurance from Oct 2024 – April 2025?

• I understand the cost of NHI varies based on a number of factors, does anyone have a rough idea of cost for someone in my situation?

Points to note:

• I haven't snowboarded or skied before, I am going to learn.

• I would pick up travel insurance again when leaving Japan to travel SEA

• I am a pretty careful, cautious person. Won't be doing many extreme activities or skiing backcountry.

• Travel Insurance from NZ for 12 months ranges from $1200-$1700 NZD and that is without the added snow cover!