When Will Mounjaro Be Available in New Zealand?
- Canaan Aumua
- Jan 13
- 3 min read
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has been making global headlines as a promising new medication for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. As clinical trials and international use continue to show encouraging results, many New Zealanders are asking: when will Mounjaro be available here?
Let’s explore what we currently know about Mounjaro’s availability in NZ, the regulatory pathway, and what options are available in the meantime through trusted providers like Pocket Lab.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, a once-weekly injectable medication that mimics two hormones: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). These hormones help regulate appetite, insulin production, and blood sugar — making the drug effective for both weight loss and type 2 diabetes management.
Unlike Wegovy or Ozempic, which only act on the GLP-1 receptor, Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism may offer even greater metabolic benefits.
Is Mounjaro Available in New Zealand?
As of early 2026, Mounjaro is not yet approved for use in New Zealand.
While the medication has been approved in countries like the United States and is undergoing regulatory assessments in parts of Europe and Australia, Medsafe — New Zealand’s medical regulatory authority — has not yet issued approval for tirzepatide.
There are currently no clear public announcements on an expected timeline, but the growing global uptake suggests that New Zealand approval may be on the horizon in the coming 12–24 months.
Why the Wait?
Getting a new prescription medication approved in New Zealand involves a rigorous evaluation process. Medsafe must review the drug’s safety, efficacy, side effects, and long-term data before granting approval. After this, PHARMAC may assess whether it will be publicly funded — although Mounjaro would likely be available as a private (non-funded) medication initially.
Delays can also stem from manufacturer submissions. If the pharmaceutical company behind Mounjaro has not yet applied for NZ approval, Medsafe cannot begin the process.
Can You Access Mounjaro Through Other Channels?
Some New Zealanders explore personal importation through overseas clinics or pharmacies. However, this approach carries significant risks:
Safety: You may not be getting genuine or quality-assured medication.
Legality: Importing prescription medications without proper oversight can violate NZ law.
Monitoring: You won’t have the benefit of a licensed NZ GP monitoring your progress and health.
Instead, it’s safer and more effective to work with a New Zealand-based online GP platform like Pocket Lab, which provides medically reviewed care plans and currently offers approved medications like Wegovy.
What to Do While Waiting for Mounjaro
Although Mounjaro is not yet available in NZ, you still have excellent alternatives for medically guided weight loss.
With Pocket Lab’s virtual Weight Loss Care Plan, you can:
Receive a GP-led assessment to determine if Wegovy is right for you
Access prescription-based weight loss support, including GLP-1 medications
Get advice on nutrition, side effect management, and sustainable habit change
Have ongoing care and progress tracking, all from home
This plan gives you access to safe, evidence-based treatment without needing to wait for Mounjaro’s official release.
Final Thoughts
Mounjaro is a powerful new tool in the fight against obesity and diabetes, but it’s not available in New Zealand just yet. Until approval comes through, you can still make progress toward your goals using Wegovy and Pocket Lab’s expert support team.
Mounjaro isn’t available right now, but Wegovy is another alternative that is available. You can start your journey today by taking our FREE eligibility test below and connecting with a Pocket Lab GP online.
