Abortion in New Zealand

Is abortion legal in New Zealand?

On 24 March 2020, New Zealand amended its abortion laws to decriminalize the procedure, align its regulation with other health services, and modernize the legal framework. One significant change is the removal of the requirement for abortions to be performed in licensed premises. This allows abortion services to be provided closer to home, including through primary care and telehealth. Additionally, there are no longer any clinical or statutory requirements for abortions performed up to 20 weeks of pregnancy, meaning a qualified health practitioner can provide the service without needing further justification.

For abortions after 20 weeks, statutory clinical requirements apply. A qualified health practitioner may perform the procedure if they believe it is clinically appropriate, but they must consult at least one other qualified health practitioner. In making this decision, they must consider the individual’s physical and mental health, the gestational age of the fetus, and all relevant legal, professional, and ethical standards.

While counseling is not mandatory, health practitioners must offer information about available counseling services for individuals considering an abortion.

What are the different abortion services available in New Zealand?

medical abortion – usually for pregnancies up to 9-10 weeks

surgical abortion – the method may vary depending on the number of weeks of pregnancy.

Who can perform abortions in New Zealand?

Doctors, midwives, nurse practitioners and registered nurses.

If your doctor, nurse, or midwife has objections to abortion, they are required to refer you to another healthcare professional.

Where can I go for abortion services in New Zealand?

A doctor’s referral is not required to access abortion services, which can be provided closer to home, including through primary care, with your healthcare provider and telehealth.

• If you’re in school, the school nurse or counselor may also be able to assist.
• You can find more information on HealhNew Zealand website: https://info.health.nz/pregnancy-children/abortion

What is the cost of an abortion in New Zealand?

If you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or if you have a two-year visa, abortions are covered under the public health service. If you are not eligible for the public health service, private care is available at a cost from $1200 – $2500 NZD.

What are the legal and safe drugs available in New Zealand?

Myfegymiso (Mifepristone / Misoprostol) is the usual means of medical abortion.

Can I buy abortion pills at a pharmacy in New Zealand?

No.

Can I buy abortion pills online in New Zealand?

Accessing abortion outside the public or private health systems is illegal.

Who can I contact for additional abortion information and support in New Zealand?

You can consult your healthcare provider or Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa for information about a local abortion provider.

• Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa: https://abortion.org.nz.
• DECIDE
  • Call DECIDE on 0800 332 433
    They can help you find a provider near you. If you are less than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be able to arrange an abortion over the phone.
  • https://www.decide.org.nz/

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