PrEP in New Zealand: Who Should Consider It and How to Access It

HIV prevention has come a long way in Aotearoa. Today, one of the most effective tools available is PrEP — a daily or event-based medication that significantly reduces your risk of acquiring HIV. Whether you’re exploring your options for the first time or want clarity on how PrEP works in New Zealand, this guide breaks down who it’s for, how it protects you, and the steps to access it safely.

What Is PrEP and How Does It Work?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication taken by people who are HIV-negative but at higher risk of exposure. When taken correctly, PrEP makes it extremely difficult for HIV to establish itself in the body, offering one of the most powerful forms of HIV prevention available today.

PrEP is taken either:

• Daily, which provides consistent protection

• Event-based/on-demand, a specific schedule taken around times of sexual activity (recommended only for certain individuals based on clinical guidance)

In both cases, PrEP works by maintaining enough protective medication in your system to block HIV from replicating.

Who Should Consider PrEP in NZ?

PrEP isn’t for everyone — but it’s an excellent option if your lifestyle or relationships put you at increased risk of HIV. You may benefit from PrEP if any of the following apply to you:

1. You Have a Sexual Partner Who Is HIV-Positive

If your partner lives with HIV and is not consistently undetectable, PrEP provides an added protective layer. Even in relationships with someone on treatment, PrEP can offer peace of mind.

2. You Have Multiple Sexual Partners

If you regularly engage in casual sex or have a high number of partners, PrEP greatly reduces HIV transmission risk — especially if condom use is inconsistent.

3. You Have Condomless Anal Sex

Unprotected sex remains one of the most common transmission pathways. PrEP is recommended if you have frequent condomless sex, particularly within sexual networks where HIV rates are higher.

4. You Participate in Chemsex

Methamphetamine, GHB, and other substances can increase risk by lowering inhibition and reducing condom use. PrEP can provide strong protection for those participating in chemsex environments.

5. You Have Had a Recent STI

Infections such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, or chlamydia can indicate increased sexual exposure and risk. If you’ve had recent STIs, PrEP may be an important part of your sexual health plan.

6. You’re a Sex Worker

PrEP is an additional protective measure for sex workers in New Zealand, especially when condom negotiation isn’t always possible.

7. You’re Looking for Reliable, Long-Term Prevention

Even if your risk varies over time, PrEP can be used during periods when you feel more vulnerable to exposure.

If any of these resonate with you, PrEP may be an excellent option to discuss with a clinician.

Effectiveness of PrEP

When taken as prescribed, PrEP is over 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission from sexual contact. Effectiveness is highest when:

• Daily doses are not missed

• Event-based dosing is followed precisely

• Routine check-ups and blood tests are completed

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What PrEP doesn’t do is protect you from other STIs like syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, or hepatitis. For full sexual health protection, regular STI testing is still essential.

Is PrEP Safe?

PrEP is considered very safe in New Zealand and globally. Most people experience few or no side effects. If side effects do occur, they are usually mild and temporary — such as nausea, fatigue, or headaches.

Your clinician may check your kidney function and overall health before starting PrEP, as well as during routine follow-ups every three months. These check-ins ensure the medication remains safe and effective for you long-term.

How to Access PrEP in New Zealand

Accessing PrEP in NZ is straightforward, and there are multiple pathways depending on your situation.

1. Through Your GP or a Sexual Health Clinic

Most GPs and sexual health services can prescribe PrEP after assessing your HIV risk and running baseline tests. If you prefer in-person care, this is a reliable option.

2. Through Online Healthcare Providers

Telehealth platforms like Pocket Lab make it easier to access PrEP without in-clinic appointments. You can complete your consultation from home, get your tests organised, and have prescriptions sent directly to your pharmacy.

This is especially helpful if:

• You live rurally

• You prefer privacy

• You have a busy schedule

• You want fast, discreet access to care

You can learn more about PrEP eligibility and access options through Pocket Lab's online PrEP consultation service.

3. What Happens After Your First Prescription?

Once you’re prescribed PrEP, you’ll typically need:

• Quarterly check-ins, including HIV testing

• Kidney function monitoring, usually every 6–12 months

• Regular STI testing, which many people prefer to do every 3–6 months

If you ever choose to stop PrEP, your clinician will guide you through the safe process of transitioning off it.

PrEP vs PEP: What’s the Difference?

It’s important not to confuse PrEP with PEP.

• PrEP is taken before potential exposure.

• PEP is taken after a possible exposure and must be started within 72 hours.

If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV within the past three days, you need urgent medical attention — PrEP will not be effective in this situation.

The Importance of Regular STI Testing While on PrEP

Since PrEP only prevents HIV, routine STI screening remains essential. Many people on PrEP choose to test every three months to stay on top of their sexual health.

If you need a convenient and discreet way to check your status, Pocket Lab also offers fast access to an online STI test, which makes screening simple and stress-free.

Taking Control of Your Sexual Health

Whether you’re sexually active with multiple partners, in a relationship with someone living with HIV, or looking for effective long-term protection, PrEP can be a life-changing option. It gives you confidence, reduces risk dramatically, and helps you protect yourself and your partners.

If you’re considering PrEP or want accessible STI testing, Pocket Lab’s clinicians can help you choose the right pathway for your lifestyle and health needs.