How to get a medical cannabis prescription in NZ
Six clear steps, from your first question to collecting your medicine. The process is more accessible than many people realise — here's exactly how it works.
Last reviewed 15 June 2026 · Education, not medical advice
How do you get a medical cannabis prescription in NZ?
Any registered NZ doctor can prescribe most medicinal-cannabis products — you usually don't need a specialist. Book with your GP or a cannabis clinic (telehealth is available nationwide), be assessed, and if it's suitable you collect a quality-assured product from a pharmacy. Most products are unfunded, so you pay out-of-pocket.
- 1
Understand your options
Read about the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme, the difference between CBD and THC products, and what the evidence says for your condition. Going in informed makes the conversation with your doctor far more productive.
- 2
Talk to a doctor
Any registered New Zealand doctor can prescribe most medicinal-cannabis products. You can start with your own GP, or book a consultation with a clinic that focuses on cannabis medicine — many offer telehealth so you can be seen from anywhere in NZ.
- 3
Get assessed
Your prescriber will consider your medical history, current medicines, what you've already tried, and the risks and benefits. There is no fixed list of qualifying conditions — it's a clinical judgement made for you as an individual.
- 4
Receive your prescription
If the doctor decides medicinal cannabis is appropriate, they'll prescribe a specific product and dose. Products supplied under the scheme meet a minimum quality standard, or are approved pharmaceuticals such as Sativex or Epidyolex.
- 5
Collect from a pharmacy
You fill the prescription at a pharmacy. Most medicinal-cannabis products are not currently funded, so you typically pay the full cost — your clinic and pharmacy can explain pricing before you commit.
- 6
Review and adjust
Finding the right product and dose can take time. Regular follow-ups let your prescriber adjust your treatment, monitor for side effects, and make sure it's genuinely helping.
This is general information, not medical advice. Only a registered New Zealand doctor can decide whether medicinal cannabis is right for you.
Reviewed for accuracy by the mc.nz editorial team against the cited sources. Last reviewed 15 June 2026.
Before you book
Do I need a special specialist to prescribe?
For most products, no. Any registered NZ doctor can prescribe. Some products and situations involve additional steps, which your prescriber will explain.
Is medicinal cannabis funded by Pharmac?
Most products are not currently funded, so patients usually pay the full cost. A small number of approved pharmaceuticals may be funded in specific circumstances.
What's the difference between CBD and THC products?
CBD-only products are prescription medicines but are not controlled drugs and are generally non-intoxicating. THC-containing products are controlled drugs with tighter rules, as THC is the component that can cause a 'high'.
Can I get a prescription by telehealth?
Yes — many NZ medical-cannabis clinics operate by video or phone consultation, so you can be assessed from anywhere in the country.
Is recreational cannabis legal in New Zealand?
No. Only medicinal use on prescription is legal. Recreational possession, supply and cultivation remain criminal offences.
Ready to take the next step?
Connect with a registered NZ prescriber — many offer telehealth from anywhere in the country.