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Yes. Medical cannabis has been legal in New Zealand since 2018. It can only be accessed with a valid prescription from a registered New Zealand doctor. All products must meet the standards outlined in the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme and be approved for use under Medsafe regulations. Cannabis Clinic was one of the first clinics in NZ to prescribe medicinal cannabis, and we remain at the forefront of supporting safe, legal access for patients nationwide. Learn more: Is CBD Oil Legal in NZ

Yes, if it’s prescribed to you, you are legally allowed to carry it with you in public. However, your medicine must be in its original packaging and clearly labelled with your name and dosage instructions. Using your medicine (especially any containing THC) in public is not recommended, as this could draw unwanted attention or cause confusion. As a general rule, treat your medication with the same discretion as you would any prescription medicine.

If you are using CBD-only products, you can legally drive as long as you are not impaired. CBD is non-intoxicating and does not affect motor function or cognition. However, if your prescription includes THC, we usually recommend waiting at least 8–10 hours before driving to ensure it has cleared your system and you are not impaired. If you feel drowsy, slow to react, or otherwise affected, do not drive. Roadside drug testing is conducted in New Zealand and can detect THC. Driving while impaired can result in legal consequences. Learn more: Changes to Random Roadside Saliva Drug Testing in NZ: What it Means for Medicinal Cannabis Patients

Yes, if your medication contains THC, it may result in a positive drug test. CBD-only products will not typically show up on drug tests, but some tests may not distinguish between cannabinoids. If you are in a safety-sensitive role or subject to workplace drug testing, we recommend speaking with your employer in advance. Cannabis Clinic can provide supporting letters and documentation for patients, but we cannot override employer policies.

No, we do not recommend the use of medicinal cannabis during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to confirm the safety of cannabinoids during these times, and international health guidelines recommend avoiding all cannabis products during pregnancy and lactation.

We also recommend ceasing cannabis products around 3 months before trying for pregnancy – this is valid for both individuals with sperm and those with eggs. If you have questions about treatment options while pregnant, speak to your doctor or midwife.

Yes, but the rules differ for domestic and international travel. If you’re travelling within New Zealand, you can legally carry your prescribed medicinal cannabis as long as it remains in its original pharmacy packaging with a clear label showing your name, dosing instructions, and prescribing doctor. We recommend taking a copy of your prescription or treatment summary with you, especially when travelling through airports. We can also provide a letter of support for travel, for extra peace of mind.

If you’re flying, pack your medication in your carry-on bag and ensure it remains easily accessible if requested by security. If you have questions about domestic travel, our nursing team can help guide you before your trip.

International travel is much more complex. Medicinal cannabis remains illegal in many countries, and even CBD-only products may be restricted or banned. Some countries have strict penalties for possession, regardless of whether your medicine is legally prescribed in New Zealand. For this reason, we strongly advise not travelling internationally with medicinal cannabis unless you have checked the regulations in your destination country and layovers and obtained the appropriate travel permits, where possible.

Learn more about travelling with medicinal cannabis in our blog: I****Travelling with medicinal cannabis blog post here

No, it’s not legally required to inform your GP about your medicinal cannabis prescription. However, at Cannabis Clinic, we strongly recommend open communication between your prescriber and primary care provider. Coordinated care ensures better outcomes, especially if you’re managing multiple medications or chronic conditions. Most GP’s are often happy to have their patients use safer, legal medicinal cannabis over illicit sources.

If you consent, our team will send a copy of your treatment plan and consultation summary directly to your GP. This helps create a complete picture of your care and reduces the risk of medication interactions. For patients with complex health histories or those seeking continuity across providers, shared information can be especially important.

Want to know how medicinal cannabis integrates into your broader healthcare plan? Read more: How Medicinal Cannabis Works in the Body

Possibly – it depends entirely on your employer’s drug policy. While a valid prescription for medicinal cannabis is legal in New Zealand, this does not automatically protect you from workplace consequences. Many employers, especially in safety-sensitive industries, have zero-tolerance drug policies that include THC, even when used legally.

If your prescription includes THC, we recommend:

• Reviewing your company’s drug and alcohol policy
• Speaking with your employer or HR department
• Letting our team provide a supporting letter for your workplace

We regularly help patients navigate employment-related questions and provide documentation explaining the legal status and therapeutic purpose of your treatment. However, final decisions around employment rest with your employer.

If you’re concerned about drug testing, these articles might help:

• Will Medicinal Cannabis Show Up on a Drug Test?
• CBD and Drug Testing: What You Need to Know

No. Unfortunately, medicinal cannabis in New Zealand can only be prescribed to current residents who hold a valid National Health Index (NHI) number. This system is part of our healthcare infrastructure and is required for all prescriptions.

If you’re travelling to New Zealand from overseas, we recommend discussing alternative treatment options with your home country’s healthcare provider before departure. Importing medicinal cannabis into NZ is also prohibited without a special licence, which is rarely granted to individuals.

Travelling with medicinal cannabis? Always check local laws. You can learn more about legal access in NZ here: Medicinal Cannabis in NZ – A Legal Guide

Booking a consultation is easy and can be done entirely online. Simply visit our booking page and choose a time that suits you. We offer telehealth appointments nationwide, as well as in-person consultations at our Auckland, Hawke’s Bay and Nelson clinics. You’ll be guided through the process step-by-step, and our team is always available to assist if you have questions.

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, we recommend starting with a free nurse call. It’s a great way to ask questions and find out what to expect before booking a paid consultation. Book Your Appointment Now.

During your consultation, one of our experienced doctors will take the time to understand your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. You’ll discuss your current treatments, medical conditions, and any past experiences with medications. The doctor will explain how medicinal cannabis works, assess whether it’s suitable for your needs, and answer all your questions. If appropriate, they’ll provide a personalised treatment plan and prescription.

You’ll also receive follow-up guidance and have access to our nursing team for ongoing support. 

If assessed as being suitable, most patients receive their prescription at the end of their consultation. In some cases, your doctor may request additional information (such as medical notes or specialist letters) before finalising the script. Once your prescription is issued, it’s sent to the pharmacy and can usually be processed and shipped within 1–2 business days.

No, you do not need a referral. Cannabis Clinic is a direct-to-patient service, meaning anyone in New Zealand can book a consultation without needing to go through their GP. That said, we encourage patients to keep their GP informed, as coordinated care leads to better health outcomes.

Our clinic can also communicate with your GP (with your consent) to ensure continuity of care. If you’re unsure whether medicinal cannabis is appropriate for your condition, we suggest starting with a free eligibility call with one of our nurses: Book Now.

Yes, we can. If you’ve already received a medicinal cannabis prescription from your GP or another clinic and would like to continue treatment with us, we’re here to help. You’ll need to book a consultation with one of our doctors so we can assess your current treatment, review any updates to your condition, and ensure your medication still suits your needs.

If your existing prescription is still valid, we may be able to continue your treatment plan with minimal disruption. Patients transferring from another provider are also eligible for a discounted initial consultation. After you join us, you’ll have access to our full clinical support team, free nurse check-ins, faster medication fulfillment, and educational resources to help you feel confident in your care. Book a consultation now.

A health summary is not required for you to attend your initial consultation, however supplying your health summary allows our clinical team to fully understand your health history and ensure any treatment we prescribe is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs. This includes current and past diagnoses, previous medications, allergies, and any recent test results or specialist letters.

These notes give your doctor a clear picture of what’s been tried before, what’s worked (or hasn’t), and whether there are any contraindications with medicinal cannabis. Having this information upfront helps streamline your consultation, avoids delays, and ensures we meet the legal requirements for safe prescribing under the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme.

You can request your notes from your GP or download them via your online health portal. If you need help, our admin team can guide you step-by-step.

Absolutely. Cannabis Clinic supports patients all across New Zealand through secure telehealth consultations. Whether you’re in Stewart Island, Dunedin, Gisborne, Tauranga or anywhere in between, you can speak with a qualified doctor from the comfort of your home using your phone or computer.

We’ve helped thousands of patients in rural and regional areas who otherwise wouldn’t have access to cannabis doctors. Our courier pharmacy service can deliver your medicine directly to your door, and our nurse team is available for follow-ups or questions as needed. Accessing care shouldn’t depend on your postcode – we’re here to make it simple and nationwide. Book your telehealth consultation

We know how valuable it would be for patients to view their active prescriptions, track remaining refills, and manage strain requests online. That’s why we’re actively developing a new digital platform to improve your experience.

This system will allow you to:

• View your current prescriptions and their expiry dates
• Track the status of your orders
• Request alternative strains (when eligible)
• Message the clinic securely for support

We’ll be rolling this out in the coming months, so stay tuned! In the meantime, our admin and nursing team is available to provide prescription information if needed. Simply call or email and we’ll help you out.

Medicinal cannabis costs vary depending on the type of product prescribed, the dosage, and how often you use it. Most patients can expect to spend between $3–$7 per day on their medicine, although this can differ based on individual needs.

Your initial consultation with a Cannabis Clinic doctor costs $79 for an online video or $99 in person, followed by a more in-depth first follow-up appointment (recommended 4–6 weeks later), which costs $49. After that, ongoing follow-up re-scripts are just $39 for a 10-minute check-in every three months (or as needed for prescription renewals).

Because everyone’s treatment plan is different, the best way to get a personalised cost estimate is to book a free nurse eligibility call, where we’ll help you understand what treatment might involve and what costs to expect. Book your free call here.

Learn more: How Much Does Medicinal Cannabis Cost in NZ?

CBD oil pricing in New Zealand depends on the concentration, format (oil vs capsule), and daily dose recommended by your doctor. On average, most patients spend around $100–$250 per month on CBD oil, although lower or higher doses may affect this.

CBD is typically taken daily and prescribed in a concentration that suits your condition. Higher strength oils may cost more upfront, but often last longer, which can be more economical over time. Our doctors and nurses can help you find a product and dosage that fits your health needs and budget.

Learn more: The Cost of CBD Oil in NZ and The Real Cost of Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand.

We understand that price is one of the biggest barriers to accessing medicinal cannabis. Unfortunately, medicinal cannabis is not currently subsidised by Pharmacy, meaning patients must cover the full cost of treatment themselves.

The products prescribed through our clinic are pharmaceutical-grade, meaning they must meet strict quality, safety, and manufacturing standards. These standards include third-party testing, traceability, consistent dosing, and Medsafe approval – all of which contribute to the higher cost compared to unregulated or overseas products.

The good news? Prices have steadily decreased over the past few years, and we expect this trend to continue as more products become available. We’re committed to finding the best value options for your needs and will always work with you to find a cost-effective plan. 

Read more: The Real Cost of Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand.

While we don’t currently offer formal payment plans, we do everything we can to make access more affordable:

• Free nurse eligibility calls to help you understand costs before committing
• Low-cost follow-ups ($39 per 10-minute phone consultation)
• Flexible prescription lengths, so you can reduce the frequency of repeat visits
• Budget-friendly medicine options, tailored to your needs and lifestyle

If cost is a concern, our team can work with you to find the most affordable treatment pathway – including reviewing lower-dose options or slower introduction plans. In some cases, our doctors can help advocate for employer support or special consideration.

Talk to us: Book a free nurse call or email us at [email protected] for confidential advice.

Medicinal cannabis comes in a variety of formats, and how you take it depends on your prescription and personal health goals. Common methods include:

• CBD or THC oil – Usually taken orally by placing drops under the tongue (sublingual) or swallowed directly.
• Capsules – Swallowed like any medication, offering a convenient, tasteless option.
• Dried flower – Used with a dry herb vaporiser. Vaporisation is the only approved inhalation method in NZ and offers fast symptom relief.
• Topicals – In some cases, cannabis-infused creams or balms may be prescribed for localised pain or inflammation.

Each method has a different onset time and duration. Oils and capsules tend to have longer-lasting effects but take longer to start working (30–90 mins), while vaporised flower acts more quickly (within minutes) but wears off sooner. Your doctor will recommend the best format and dosage based on your condition, lifestyle, and preferences.

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Typically:

• Start low and go slow – Begin with the lowest prescribed dose and gradually increase as advised.
• Be consistent – Take your medicine at the same time(s) each day for steady results.
• Monitor effects – Keep a journal to track symptoms and side effects.
• Avoid mixing with alcohol or sedatives unless specifically cleared by your doctor.

For oils: Shake the bottle, measure the dose with the dropper, and place it under your tongue for 30–60 seconds before swallowing. For capsules, take with water. If you’re unsure how to use your medication, our nursing team is available to guide you.

Side effects vary depending on your sensitivity, the product, and dosage. Most are mild and manageable. Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness or fatigue (especially with THC)
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Changes in appetite
• Mild anxiety or mood changes (usually dose-related)

CBD is generally well tolerated with fewer side effects. THC may cause stronger effects if taken in excess or by people sensitive to it.

For more information, see our article: Does Medicinal Cannabis Cause Addiction? The Science Behind Dependency

Most side effects can be resolved by adjusting the dose or changing the product. If you experience any discomfort, contact our nursing team immediately – we offer free nurse consultations to help manage your care.

Steps to take:

• Stop increasing your dose.
• Reduce or pause the medication if symptoms are intense.
• Book a nurse call for support and advice.
• Log your symptoms to help guide future treatment.

Never discontinue medication without professional guidance. We’re here to support you at every step.

Medicinal cannabis is not considered addictive in the way substances like opioids, alcohol, or tobacco are. Some patients may develop a tolerance or dependence (especially with high-dose THC), but this is rare and usually reversible.

CBD is non-addictive and does not cause withdrawal. THC, when used responsibly and under clinical supervision, poses a low risk of dependency.

We assess every patient’s medical history and risk factors to ensure your treatment is safe. If you have concerns, discuss them with your prescribing doctor.

Learn more in our blog: Does Medicinal Cannabis Cause Addiction?

Yes, we support flexibility when clinically appropriate. You can discuss your preferences during your doctor consultation, and in many cases, multiple strains (especially dried flower) can be prescribed for variety within your treatment plan.

If you need to request a change outside of a consult, our nursing team can facilitate this, provided:

• The new strain has equal or lower THC content.
• The change is based on clinical need or response.

There is no additional charge for requesting a strain change via our clinical team.

Due to NZ’s Medicines Act, we’re not allowed to list specific products publicly. However, our clinic works with a wide range of approved, Medsafe-compliant products – including multiple CBD and THC strains, in oil, capsule, and flower formats.

We tailor your prescription based on clinical goals, symptoms, and your preferences. For product-related queries or strain availability, please book a free nurse consultation where we can legally discuss your options in a one-on-one setting. Book your free nurse call here.