Wegovy in NZ: Common Questions About Cost, Access, and Effectiveness

Wegovy is now in NZ. Learn who qualifies, how to get it, what it costs, and what to expect from treatment.

August 8, 2025

Wegovy is a weekly injectable medication designed to help with long-term weight loss. It’s now available in New Zealand, and interest is high, but many people still have questions.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Wegovy, including how it works, who it’s for, how to get it, and what to expect.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescription weight loss medication that contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a natural hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.

It’s taken once a week using a small injection pen.

Is Wegovy available in New Zealand?

Yes. Wegovy is now available in New Zealand as of 2025. It’s prescribed by doctors for people who meet specific criteria for weight management.

Who is Wegovy for?

Wegovy is typically prescribed to adults who:

Have a BMI of 30 or more, or
Have a BMI of 27 or more with a related health condition (e.g. high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, high cholesterol, PCOS, obstructive sleep apnoea)

It’s meant to be part of a longer-term weight management plan, not a quick fix. Doctors may also consider other factors like medical history, previous weight loss attempts, and overall risk profile. Wegovy is not prescribed for cosmetic or short-term weight loss purposes.

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How much does Wegovy cost in NZ?

In New Zealand, Wegovy is not currently subsidised by Pharmac. The cost varies but is generally around NZD $460-$480+ per month, depending on the pharmacy and supply.

Some online services (like Well Revolution) may offer packages that include medical support and follow-up care.

Do I need a prescription for Wegovy?

Yes. Wegovy is only available with a prescription in New Zealand. You’ll need a medical assessment to determine if it’s right for you.

Can I get Wegovy online?

Yes, in many cases. Some telehealth services offer online consultations and prescriptions if you qualify. Well Revolution is one of the fastest ways to start Wegovy with licensed doctors and same-day prescriptions.

How fast does Wegovy work?

Most people begin to lose weight in the first 4–8 weeks, with significant weight loss typically seen after 12 weeks or more.

Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–18% of body weight over 68 weeks, but results vary.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects include:

Nausea
Bloating
Constipation or diarrhoea
Headache
Fatigue

These are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Side effects are more common when increasing the dose.

For a deeper dive, see Understanding Wegovy Side Effects: Causes and Effective Management

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Is Wegovy the same as Ozempic?

They contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide), but Wegovy is designed for weight loss, while Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes.

Wegovy comes in higher doses and follows a different titration schedule.

What are the alternatives to Wegovy?

In New Zealand, other prescription weight loss options include:

Saxenda (liraglutide) – daily injection
Duromine – oral appetite suppressant
Contrave – oral medication combining bupropion and naltrexone
Ozempic – sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss

Each has different benefits, risks, and eligibility criteria.

Final thoughts

Wegovy offers a new path to long-term weight loss for people who’ve struggled with traditional diets. If you think you may qualify, speak with a doctor, or start with an online assessment to find out if it’s right for you.