Questions are being raised over why it's being left up to charities to help people see a doctor.
The Salvation Army is opening a free medical clinic in Auckland's Waitakere centre once a week this month.
Auckland Action Against Poverty spokesperson Ricardo Menéndez says it's a great gesture, but shouldn't be their responsibility.
"The need for charity shows that we've got a failing healthcare system that is not meeting the needs of our most vulnerable," he told Newshub.
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Menéndez says all doctors' visits should be free.
"People cut doctors visits because they can't afford it, which means by the time they realise they've got a medical condition... they have got into a state where it's an emergency."
Ministry of Health data shows one-in-seven adults have avoided seeing a doctor, because of the cost.
Menéndez says winter is particularly hard.
"The Government hasn't moved fast enough to address the cost of healthcare in New Zealand."
Waitakere Ranges local board chair Greg Presland believes it will be a popular service.
"West Auckland's a lovely place, but we do have some real deep pockets of poverty."
The centre, he says, is in the perfect spot.
"It's based in the middle of Henderson, so transport to there is going to be much easier for some people."
The first appointments for July's free clinics will take place on Tuesday.
Newshub.
