Information for health professionals and the wider sector is gradually moving. Until mid-2026, information will either be here, or on our other website — tewhatuora.govt.nz.
HIV transmission and treatment
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be transmitted through:
- vaginal and anal sex without a condom
- sharing needles
- pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding
- direct blood-to-blood contact with someone living with HIV.
While there is no cure for HIV, highly effective funded treatment is available. This is available to anyone living with HIV in Aotearoa New Zealand, regardless of residency status.
Without treatment, HIV causes a chronic progressive immune deficiency. This leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
With early treatment, people with HIV:
- will stay well and not progress to AIDS
- are expected to have a similar life expectancy to people without HIV.
Once a person is stable on treatment, with an undetectable viral load for at least 6 months, there is zero risk of sexual transmission. This is known as U=U (undetectable = untransmittable).
The New Zealand Sexual Health Society (NZSHS) STI guidelines include guidance for clinicians in diagnosing and caring for people living with HIV.