A specialist vestibular referral pathway.
We accept referrals from GPs, ENT specialists, neurologists, and other audiologists across Canterbury and the South Island.
A confirmed diagnosis is not required.
Consider referring patients presenting with:
- Vertigo or spinning sensations
- Persistent dizziness or light-headedness
- Unsteadiness, imbalance, or unexplained falls
- Symptoms triggered by head movement or position changes
- Motion sensitivity or chronic imbalance
- Suspected vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease, or vestibular migraine
- BPPV — for diagnosis and repositioning treatment
- Bilateral vestibular loss
- Central or neurological balance disorders requiring vestibular differentiation
Fast. Straightforward. Online.
The preferred referral method is ERMS -search Balance Institute and refer online in a few minutes. No account with us needed, and no login required for one-off referrals. You can also use our online referral form, or contact us directly to discuss a patient prior to referral.
Refer via ERMS
Send your referral directly through ERMS, the secure electronic referral system used across New Zealand. Search Balance Institute and refer online in minutes, no login required on your end.
Refer via ERMS →Online Referral Form
Complete patient and clinical details in one form. Auto-confirmation sent to your email. Recommended for most referrals.
Refer a Patient →Phone / Direct Contact
Prefer to talk it through first? Contact us directly on 027 241 1263 or email admin@balanceinstitute.nz
A complete diagnostic workup in a single appointment.
Our comprehensive vestibular assessment takes 2–3 hours and includes:
| Test | What it assesses |
|---|---|
| Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) | Function of all six semicircular canals; vestibulo-ocular reflex gain per canal |
| Video Nystagmography (VNG) | Eye movement control, visual-vestibular integration, positional nystagmus, gaze stability |
| cVEMP & oVEMP | Saccular and utricular function; inferior and superior vestibular nerve pathways |
| Caloric Testing | Ear-specific semicircular canal function; unilateral vestibular weakness; canal paresis |
| Electrocochleography (ECoG) | Inner ear fluid pressure and endolymphatic hydrops; supports Meniere's disease diagnosis |
We also offer standalone BPPV diagnosis and repositioning treatment, with ongoing rehabilitation supported by our vestibular physiotherapy partner.
A detailed report sent back to you promptly.
Following each assessment, a comprehensive written report is sent to the referring clinician, ensuring continuity of care and supporting your ongoing management.
Presenting symptoms, timeline, and relevant clinical history as documented at assessment.
Full results from all vestibular tests conducted, with clinical interpretation.
Diagnosis or differential diagnosis with supporting clinical reasoning.
Recommended next steps — rehabilitation, medical review, or further investigation where appropriate.
ACC & Private Insurance
ACC funding may be available for eligible presentations. Contact us to discuss prior to referral. Private health insurance may also cover part of the assessment cost, patients can enquire directly at the time of booking.
