Source: PHARMAC
Media release Medicines COVID-19
Pharmac has secured a new supply agreement with Pfizer to continue funding the Comirnaty brand of COVID-19 vaccine.
This means Comirnaty will remain the main funded vaccine in New Zealand from 1 February 2026 through to at least 30 September 2027, with options to extend until 2029.
The vaccine will continue to be available in a range of doses for infants, children, and adults. A new prefilled syringe for adults will also be introduced, making it easier for health professionals to administer the vaccine. This decision follows a competitive procurement process and advice from the Immunisation Advisory Committee.
“We’re pleased to confirm ongoing access to Comirnaty for New Zealanders,” says Director Pharmaceuticals Adrienne Martin. “The introduction of prefilled syringes will help streamline the vaccination process and support our health workforce.”
Pharmac has updated its proposal after listening to feedback from clinicians and the public.
“In June, we invited people to share their views and received nearly 2,100 responses. We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute – your insights help shape our decisions,” says Martin.
Pharmac received a wide range of views about the COVID-19 vaccine during consultation, both supporting and disagreeing with the use of vaccines, which it has shared with respective agencies such as the Ministry of Health. The Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine, funded by Pharmac, has been approved by Medsafe as meeting New Zealand and international standards of safety and effectiveness.
Some people supported securing a future vaccine supply and introducing prefilled syringes. Others requested private access for those not currently eligible, and some highlighted the need for updated variant or combination vaccines.
Views on eligibility varied, some advocated for broader access for children under 12, while others preferred a more targeted approach. In response, Pharmac has made important changes to ensure more people who are at most need of protection can access it:
- Children under 12 who are severely immunocompromised or at high risk of serious illness will now be eligible for extra doses every 6 or 12 months respectively.
- Children and young adults aged 12–29 who are severely immunocompromised or at high risk of serious illness will be able to receive updated vaccines every 6 months.
“People wanted to make sure those who need the vaccines the most could access it,” says Martin. “These changes reflect our commitment to protecting those most at risk.”
