In New Zealand, the approved peptide-based weight-loss medicines are Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Both need a prescription, and neither was publicly funded for weight loss at the last check. Retatrutide is not approved, and Medsafe says any sold to the public comes from the black market.
Which weight-loss peptides are approved in NZ?
Medicines in this group are built on peptides that mimic gut hormones. Status matters more than popularity, so start here.
| Medicine | Peptide | NZ status | Funded for weight loss? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Approved June 2025 | No |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Available by prescription | No |
| Retatrutide | Retatrutide | Not approved | No |
How do you get a prescription?
Start with your GP, who can check whether a medicine suits your health, history and other medicines. This class is a prescription group, so it is not sold over the counter. Pharmac’s funding position can change, so ask about it at your appointment.
How much do they cost?
Costs are high without funding. 1News reported in early 2026 that Mounjaro could run from about $430 to nearly $900 a month. Prices vary by dose and pharmacy, so ask for a current quote.
Why is buying online a risk?
Medsafe warns that unapproved peptides are not assessed for quality, safety or efficacy. It says products sold outside the regulated system are illegal however they are labelled, and “research use only” wording has no legal effect. Read more in are peptides legal in NZ?
Do skincare peptides help with weight loss?
No. Skincare peptides are applied to skin for appearance, and they have no role in weight. Our plain guide to peptides explains why the same word covers such different products.
Common questions
Can I get Wegovy in New Zealand?
Yes, with a prescription from a doctor or other authorised prescriber. Pharmac says it is not publicly funded for weight loss, so most people pay the full price. Ask your GP whether it suits you.
Is retatrutide available in New Zealand?
It is not an approved medicine here. Medsafe describes it as a potential medicine still being studied, and says any retatrutide sold to the public comes from the black market.