Sovereign launches rewards for healthy living

Sovereign is launching a new loyalty programme that will tap into New Zealanders’ fitness trackers and reward customers who exercise, eat well and have regular dentist and GP check-ups.

Friday, April 22nd 2016, 12:00PM

by Susan Edmunds

Chris Lamers

Healthy By Sovereign has launched today.

Chief marketing and strategy officer Chris Lamers said it was a way to help motivate New Zealanders to take charge of their health and wellbeing.

It is available to new and existing Sovereign health insurance customers.

Through a partnership with fitness trackers Fitbit and Garmin, gyms Club Physical, Next Gen, Configure Express, Jetts and supermarket chain New World, Sovereign will reward members with points for moving, eating well, exercising and looking after their general wellbeing.

Members do not have to use a fitness tracker to qualify for rewards but Sovereign says it was a good way to do so. It is offering discounts for members to purchase trackers.

“The programme has been designed to motivate and support Kiwis on their health journey and help create a healthier nation as a whole. You don’t have to make big changes to start earning Healthy Points. Just make a few healthy choices and watch your points grow. How far you go and how much you earn is up to you,” Lamers said.

He said Sovereign had an obligation to do what it could to help New Zealanders become healthier. Customers liked the idea of being rewarded by their health and life insurers for living a healthier lifestyle, he said.

“This is the first major step. It’s not all about being a gym buddy or a super athlete,” Lamers said. “You can get points from walking the dog. You don’t have to benchpress 200kg. It could be as simple as taking the stairs at work instead of the lift, things people should be doing already to have a healthy life."

There are no costs or fees associated with being a member. Existing customers who are eligible to join have been contacted.

Lamers said the programme was likely to continue to evolve. Sovereign wanted it to be as flexible as possible to allow as many people as possible to participate.

Tags: Sovereign