3 January 2026
Pretoria Gordon

A sexual and reproductive health specialist says a recent rise in abortion numbers reflects improved access to care rather than an increase in demand.

There has been a 37 percent increase since abortion was decriminalised in New Zealand - from 12,948 in 2019 to 17,785 in 2024.

The Contraception, Sterilisation, and Abortion Act 1977 and the Crimes Act 1961 were amended in March 2020.

Continued: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/583115/abortion-numbers-rise-since-decriminalisation-and-launch-of-telehealth-services