FAQ

Part of your appointment will involve talking about any communication difficulties you experience and discussing strategies to help. If possible, we recommend bringing along a family member, friend, or anyone else you communicate with regularly. This allows us to include them in the discussion and provide tailored advice for improving communication.  

What happens if my hearing assessment shows a hearing loss?

After a comprehensive hearing test, our clinicians may recommend hearing aids as an effective way to improve your hearing and overall quality of life. Here’s how hearing aids can make a real difference:

1. Clearer hearing - Hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear conversations, voices, and everyday noises more clearly — even in challenging listening environments.

2. Better quality of life - Improved hearing supports better communication, stronger relationships, and greater confidence in social and work situations. Many people feel more connected and engaged in daily life once their hearing improves.

3. Supporting brain health - Treating hearing loss with hearing aids helps keep your auditory system active. Research shows this may reduce the risk of cognitive decline associated with untreated hearing loss.

4. Hearing solutions tailored to you - Our clinicians recommend hearing aids based on your hearing needs, lifestyle, and preferences. With a wide range of styles and advanced features available, we’ll help you find the most comfortable and effective solution. As an independent clinic, we are not owned by a hearing aid manufacturer, so our recommendations are always based on what’s best for you.

5. Ongoing care and support - We support you every step of the way. From fitting and fine-tuning to regular check-ups and advice. Our team is committed to helping you get the best possible results from your hearing aids.

Why should I book a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment? 

Identifying and managing hearing loss early is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your long-term hearing and overall health. Treating permanent hearing loss helps keep your auditory system active and supports ongoing cognitive function, reducing the risk of further decline.

Research has shown a link between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia. While hearing loss does not cause dementia on its own, it is considered a modifiable risk factor — meaning it is something we can effectively address to improve health outcomes.

A large independent study, the Achieve Trial found that hearing intervention significantly reduced cognitive decline over a three-year period in older adults at higher risk of cognitive impairment. This research highlights the real benefits of assessing and managing hearing loss early.

Booking a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment gives you clarity about your hearing health and empowers you to take proactive steps towards better hearing, better communication, and long-term wellbeing.

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Bellbird Hearing offers free hearing screenings to help you check your hearing health quickly and easily. A hearing screening appointment is simple and non-invasive. This service is free for all clients aged 18 and over. During your visit, we will:

• Ask about your hearing and medical history

• Examine your ear canals

• Check your hearing across a range of frequencies 

Is a hearing screening right for you?

A hearing screening is a great place to start if you, or someone close to you have no significant concerns about your hearing or if you are not sure if there is a hearing loss.

If your hearing screen shows a hearing loss, we can arrange an appointment for a full diagnostic hearing assessment to investigate further. If you have concerns about your hearing or ear health, a full diagnostic hearing assessment is recommended, even if your screening test results are normal. 

Why check your hearing?

Hearing loss often develops gradually, making changes difficult to notice. A screening can provide reassurance or help identify issues early. In New Zealand, one in three people over the age of 65 experiences hearing loss. The good news is that regularly monitoring your hearing health can significantly improve your quality of life. Most adults should have their hearing checked every one to two years.

Other screening options

If you prefer, you can also use our online hearing screening from the comfort of your own home. Otherwise free hearing screenings are available at our Christchurch and Timaru clinics.

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Ear wax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Ear wax is a mixture of secretions from sebaceous and ceruminous glands in the ear canal. It contains a combination of shed skin cells, hair, and other debris. 

Functions of Ear Wax

• Protection: Ear wax acts as a protective barrier, preventing dust, dirt, and other foreign particles from reaching the eardrum. 

• Lubrication: It helps keep the skin in the ear canal moisturized, preventing dryness and itchiness. 

• Antimicrobial Properties: Ear wax has antibacterial and antifungal properties, reducing the risk of ear infections by inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms. 

• Self-Cleaning Mechanism: The ear is self-cleaning. Ear wax naturally moves out of the ear canal, carrying with it any trapped debris.

Ear wax is a good thing and an important part of ear health. However, problems can occur when wax builds up and becomes blocked. If you think you may need wax removal, contact Bellbird Hearing to book an appointment with one of our trained ear nurses.

How do I know if I need ear wax removal?

Earwax is a natural substance that protects and lubricates your ears. However, a build-up can sometimes cause problems. You may need earwax removal if you experience:

• Hearing loss or muffled hearing

• Earache or pain

• A blocked or full feeling in the ear

• Ringing or other noises in the ear (tinnitus)

• Itching inside the ear

• Dizziness

• Discharge or odour from the ear

• Persistent cough (in some cases, earwax can press on nerves in the ear canal)

Earwax build-up can also occur without noticeable symptoms. If a blockage is identified during an ear check prior to a hearing test, your audiologist may recommend wax removal before further testing. If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend booking an appointment with our ear nurse. Please avoid attempting to remove earwax yourself using cotton buds or other objects, as this can push wax deeper and potentially cause damage.

How often do I need wax removed?

The time between wax removal appointments varies from person to person and depends on factors such as:

• How much earwax you naturally produce

• Working in dusty or dirty environments

• Wearing hearing aids or regularly using earphones

Your ear nurse will provide individualised advice on how often you may need earwax removal.

Using olive oil in your ears

Olive oil (or any other cooking oil) can be used in your ears prior to your micro-suction appointment to help soften the wax. Here’s how to use it:

1. Olive oil can be used at room temperature or, if preferred, it can be slightly warmed by placing the container in warm (not hot) water.

2. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.

3. Using a dropper or a clean teaspoon, carefully apply 2 – 3 drops of oil to your ear canal

4. Gently massage the skin in front of your ear to help the oil work its way in to the canal.

5. Remain in the same position for 5 – 10 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate.

6. You can place a cotton wool ball in your ear afterwards to absorb excess oil.

7. Repeat on your other ear if needed.

This can be done once a day for 2 days prior to wax removal to ensure micro-suction is as comfortable and effective as possible.

Important: do not apply oil if you have ever been told by a medical professional to keep your ears dry or if you have a grommet or perforation (hole) in your ear drum. If you have any questions or concerns about how to prepare for your appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Purchasing hearing aids can be a significant investment, but there are several funding options in New Zealand that may help make them more affordable. Here are some options:

1. Enable Hearing Aid Subsidy

• This subsidy is provided by Disability Support Services and is available to adults (over the age of 16) who:

• Have a permanent hearing loss

• Are New Zealand citizens who ordinarily live in New Zealand or permanent residents

• Are not eligible for funding through ACC, Veterans’ Affairs, or the Hearing Aid Funding Scheme, or the Children’s Hearing Aid Funding Scheme

The Hearing Aid Subsidy Scheme provides $1022.22 towards a pair of hearing aids ($511.11 for each ear) every six years.

2. Enable Hearing Aid Funding Scheme

The Hearing Aid Funding Scheme covers the cost of hearing aids (not including assessment or appointment costs) for eligible children and adults who are New Zealand citizens living in New Zealand or who are permanent residents.

This scheme supports:

• Children and young people under 21 (if eligibility criteria are met)
• Adults who have had a significant hearing loss (meeting the eligibility criteria) and have worn hearing aids since childhood
• Adults who have hearing loss and another disability that limits their ability to communicate safely and effectively, for example a significant visual impairment

• Adults who have a Community Services Card AND are:
  • in paid employment for 30 hours per week or more, or
  • a registered job seeker seeking paid employment, or
  • doing voluntary work (more than 20 hours per week), or
  • studying full time, or
  • caring full time for a dependent person

Click here for further information on the Hearing Aid Funding Scheme.   

3. ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation)

ACC funding may be available if your hearing loss is related to an accident or work-related noise exposure. For those with an accepted hearing loss, ACC contributes towards the cost of hearing tests and appointments, hearing aids, ongoing maintenance and repairs, and hearing aid batteries. ACC will provide support for you to replace your hearing aids once every six years.

If you feel that you may be eligible for ACC funding, we recommend booking a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment. You audiologist at Bellbird Hearing can provide advice on whether you may be eligible for ACC funding and lodge an application for noise-induced hearing loss on your behalf.

How do I apply for ACC funding for hearing aids?

ACC funding may be available if your hearing loss is related to an accident or work-related noise exposure. For people with an accepted ACC hearing loss claim, ACC can contribute towards the cost of:

• Hearing assessments and appointments
• Hearing aids
• Ongoing maintenance and repairs
• Hearing aid consumables
• Replacement hearing aids (usually every six years)

Bellbird Hearing can guide you through the process, check your eligibility, and help lodge your application.

The basics of covered hearing loss

 The ACC application process

Step 1 - Book a diagnostic hearing assessment

Book a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment at Bellbird Hearing. During your appointment, your clinician will discuss your work and noise exposure history alongside your hearing test results to determine whether you may be eligible to apply for ACC funding. If you appear eligible, your audiologist will lodge a claim with ACC on your behalf. Our team will also help you complete the required ACC questionnaire about your work history.

Step 2 - ACC reviews your claim

ACC will assess your application and advise whether your claim has been approved. In some cases, ACC may ask you to see or speak with an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist as part of this process. If your claim is approved, ACC will confirm how much funding they will contribute towards hearing aids.

Step 3 - Choose your hearing aids

Once you receive your approval letter from ACC, contact Bellbird Hearing to book an appointment to discuss your hearing aid options. Your audiologist will guide you through the available solutions to help you find the best fit for your lifestyle, hearing needs, and budget.

What if my claim is not approved?

If your ACC claim is not accepted, we can support you to explore other funding options, including the Enable hearing aid subsidy and other assistance programmes. If your claim is declined, please get in touch with us — our team is happy to talk through alternative options to help you access the hearing care you need.

4. Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand

Funding is available for eligible former service members with hearing loss related to their military service. To start this process, you need to see your GP and contact Veterans’ Affairs. Bellbird Hearing can then complete a Full Diagnostic Hearing Test, provide advice on hearing aid options, and work with Veteran’s Affairs to ensure your needs are met. If your claim is accepted, Veterans’ Affairs provides funding for your hearing assessment, hearing aids and ongoing maintenance and repair costs.

5. Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)

People on a low income or receiving a benefit may be eligible for additional financial support through WINZ.

6. Charitable organisations and trusts

Some local and national charities and community trusts offer financial assistance for hearing aids.

We’re here to help

Our team at Bellbird Hearing can guide you through the funding options and help with the application process. We can provide the assessments and documentation needed to support your funding applications.

By exploring these options, you may be able to significantly reduce the cost of hearing aids and get the hearing support you need with confidence.

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Adjusting to hearing aids is different for everyone. It depends on factors such as the level of your hearing loss, the type of hearing aids you wear, and how often you use them. For most people, the adjustment period takes a few weeks to a few months. Here are some great tips to help out:

Wear them regularly - If you need to, start by wearing your hearing aids for a few hours each day and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable.

Practise listening - Spend time in different listening environments. Join conversations, watch TV, and listen to music to help your brain relearn everyday sounds.

Be patient with yourself - New sounds can feel strange at first. This is completely normal, and it can take time for your brain to adjust.

Attend follow-up appointments - Regular check-ins with your clinician allow for fine-tuning to improve comfort and sound quality.

Ask for support - Your audiologist is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns during your adjustment period.

Everyone’s hearing journey is unique. With patience, consistency, and the right support, most people find that hearing aids quickly become a natural and valuable part of daily life. We are here to help, get in touch with us if you need anything. 

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If you’ve ever noticed a ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears, you’re not alone. Tinnitus affects millions of people and can range from mildly annoying to debilitating. Understanding what tinnitus is, and what you can do about it — is the first step toward managing it.

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when no external sound is present. It can present in many ways, but is often described as a ringing, hissing, buzzing, or whistling, or as sounding like cicadas or crickets. Tinnitus can be constant or intermittent and heard in one or both ears, or somewhere in the middle. For some people tinnitus is infrequent and noticeable only in quiet, but for others it is constant, severe, and profoundly affects their quality of life.Tinnitus isn’t a disease itself, but usually a symptom of changes in the hearing system. Tinnitus can have many triggers, including:

• Noise exposure - prolonged exposure to loud noise or exposure to very loud, sudden noises, such as explosions

• Age-related changes to the inner ear

• Certain medications - such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs

• Hearing disorders - conditions such as otosclerosis and Ménière’s disease

• Ear infections or blockages 

• Head and neck injuries 

• Stress, fatigue or trauma

• General health conditions - like cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

While tinnitus may begin with changes in the ear, the ongoing nature of it is generated by the brain and awareness of it often begins follows stress (of any type). It is rare that tinnitus is a symptom of a medical condition that requires treatment. 

How does tinnitus affect people?

Some people notice tinnitus only in quiet moments. For others, it can be constant and severe, affecting sleep, concentration, mood, and quality of life. Around 90% of people with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss, which can further impact communication and wellbeing.

Can you treat tinnitus?

Awareness of tinnitus can be normal, however, if tinnitus is causing distress or disrupting your life, then you should see an audiologist for assessment. There’s no single cure for tinnitus, but there are effective ways to reduce its impact. After a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment, your audiologist can create a personalised tinnitus management plan. This may include:

• Hearing aids - managing hearing loss accompanying tinnitus is often the best solution and will reduce the tinnitus in many cases

• Sound therapy –using soft sounds (such as white noise or music) can shift the focus to external sounds and help the brain learn to “tune out” tinnitus

• Informational counselling – understanding your tinnitus and any triggers can make a big difference in reducing its impact. 

• Counselling in cognitive management strategies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). 

• Stress management and relaxation techniques

• Reduction of exposure to loud noise

• Treatment of any underlying causes, for example wax removal or treatment of ear infections.  

If tinnitus is bothering you or affecting your daily life, a Full Diagnostic Hearing Assessment is the best place to start. Our audiologists — Caroline, Juliet, and Melissa — are ACC-registered and experienced in supporting people with tinnitus. You don’t have to live with tinnitus alone. With the right support, most people find significant relief and regain control of their quality of life.

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Protecting your hearing is essential for preventing hearing loss and maintaining good ear health throughout your life. Making hearing protection part of your daily routine is one of the best ways to maintain long-term hearing health. Here are some practical strategies:

Use hearing protection - Consistently use well-fitting hearing protection when exposed to loud noise in both work and recreational settings.

Limit exposure to loud noises

• Reduce volume – Keep personal audio devices below 60% of maximum volume and follow the 60/60 rule: 60 minutes at 60% volume.
• Avoid loud environments – Limit time in nightclubs, concerts, or noisy venues. Use hearing protection if you can’t avoid them.
• Keep your distance – Stand or sit farther from loud sound sources, such as speakers at concerts or loud machinery.

Take listening breaks - Give your ears regular breaks from noise to reduce the risk of damage. Even a short break can help. 

Be cautious with medications - Some medications can be ototoxic (harmful to the ears). Check with your healthcare provider if you're concerned about the side effects of your medications. 

Protect your ears from physical damage

• Avoid inserting objects – Never use cotton buds or ear candles as these can cause injury and push wax deeper into the canal.
• Use ear protection in water – Earplugs can help prevent infections while swimming.

Maintain Healthy Ears

• Regular check-ups – Visit us regularly for hearing assessments, especially if you notice changes in your hearing. 
• Manage earwax professionally – Don’t attempt to remove it yourself.

Practice safe listening habits

• Set safe volume levels – When using personal audio devices, set the volume at a level where you can hear external sounds around you. 
• Use noise-cancelling features – This helps reduce the need for higher volumes in noisy environments.

Educate yourself and others – Learn about noise risks and share safe hearing practices with family and friends.

Monitor hearing health – Watch for signs of hearing loss, such as difficulty understanding speech, turning up the volume, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Early detection improves outcomes.

Encourage safe practices in the workplace

• Follow workplace safety guidelines and wear hearing protection in noisy environments.
• Advocate for appropriate hearing protection and regular hearing assessments if needed.

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