Motueka -- Chemist

In New Zealand, and elsewhere we’ve heard, you don’t go to the doctor if you are ill. Instead, you go to the pharmacist (aka the chemist, as their sign says). It is a bit different than in the states, and it is actually an interesting system – it is certainly cheaper.

We aren’t really sure what caused it, but I have been having wicked allergies. Typically, a Claritin will solve any hayfever issues I have at home, but it has not been helping at all lately. So, we searched out a Chemist for some advice. (Note from Erin: I tricked him into walking into the pharmacy after enduring days and days of complaining. There was no "we searched.") After explaining my symptoms, the pharmacist said that I was having an allergic reaction to the uber-pollen of NZ. He suggested that I take a nasal spray, and since then I have been a new man. Now I am getting proper sleep, and I can actually keep up with Erin when we go for hikes, etc.

We were very impressed with the Chemist system, and although we have nothing against Drs – it was nice to only have to pay one person for the diagnosis and prescription process.

J