The independent panel, chaired by former Health and Disability Commissioner Ron Paterson, was due to report back on October 31.
However, Prof Paterson had asked for a month’s grace and Cabinet had agreed to that, Health Minister David Clark said.
"This is a hugely important piece of work in a priority area for this Government and it will inform policy for many years to come.
"Cabinet agreed that we need to give the panel the time to properly consider what New Zealanders have told them and to do the job right."
Public interest in the inquiry has been enormous: more than 5500 submissions were received and the panel held 400 meetings and public forums.
Dr Clark said Prof Paterson had asked for a short extension to ensure proper consideration was given to the public’s views.
The inquiry will now report back by November 30.
