The Situation

New Zealand has a small but well-organised gay sexual health infrastructure. Access varies significantly between Auckland (which has the most developed services) and the rest of the country, but the foundations are solid: PrEP is funded, testing services are available, and specialist community organisations provide capable support.

  • PrEP is funded: PHARMAC (the government drug funding body) has funded PrEP since 2018. The cost is low through community pharmacies.
  • Strong community organisations: The Burnett Foundation Aotearoa (formerly NZAF) is the primary national HIV and sexual health service, with real depth in gay and bisexual men's health.
  • GP access: New Zealand's GP system generally functions well. With a community services card or high user health card, costs are reduced.
  • Free STI treatment: Sexual health clinics at DHB (District Health Board) hospitals are publicly funded.
  • Auckland concentration: The most specialist services are clustered in Auckland. Outside the main centres, access becomes thinner.
  • GP variability: As with most countries, GP competence on gay sexual health varies. Finding an affirming GP who knows the field takes effort.
  • Smaller scale overall: New Zealand is a small country. Services exist but not at the density of larger nations.

The Golden Rules of New Zealand Sexual Health

Rule 1: The Burnett Foundation is the Hub

The Burnett Foundation Aotearoa (burnettfoundation.org.nz) is the national organisation most deeply connected to gay and bisexual men's HIV and sexual health. Their website, testing services, and referral network are the best starting point for most people.

Rule 2: PHARMAC Makes PrEP Affordable

PrEP has been PHARMAC-funded since March 2018. It requires a prescription, but the cost is manageable. Any GP or sexual health clinic can prescribe it.

Rule 3: Sexual Health Clinics are Free

DHB sexual health clinics at public hospitals are publicly funded and free to attend. They provide STI testing, treatment, PrEP, PEP, and vaccines — the full service.

Rule 4: LetThemKnow Works Here Too

If you test positive for an STI and can't face a direct notification, LetThemKnow (letthemknow.org.au) sends anonymous partner notifications to recent contacts. It works for New Zealand numbers.

Anonymous Partner Notification

If you test positive for an STI and absolutely cannot face the direct message (e.g., safety concerns, extreme anxiety), you must still ensure partners are warned.

Use LetThemKnow (letthemknow.org.au) to send a free anonymous text advising a recent partner to get tested.

Bottom line:

  • Start with the Burnett Foundation for navigation and testing.
  • PrEP is funded — get on it if it's right for you.
  • Use public sexual health clinics at DHB hospitals for free care.

🗺️ The New Zealand Guide Map

The System

Prevention & Access

Emergencies

Support

General Education

The clinical and educational content lives in the general section. The most relevant starting points: