Abortion numbers in New Zealand continue to escalate at an alarming rate, according to provisional data provided by the Ministry of Health.
A total of 17,964 induced abortions were reported in 2025, with 11,871 of these being Early Medical (chemical) abortions carried out before 10 weeks’ gestation.
These numbers follow an already troubling trend. In the Ministry of Health’s Abortion Services Report released in December 2025, the final reported number of abortions for 2024 was 17,785, including 11,892 early chemical abortions.
Earlier in 2025, however, the Ministry released provisional statistics that were significantly lower — 17,123 abortions, including 11,285 early medical (chemical) abortions. It is therefore likely that when the final report for 2025 is released later this year, the total number may again rise beyond the provisional figures.
“It is shameful how rapidly the killing of our pre-born children is increasing,” lamented Michelle Kaufman, National Director of Family Life International.
“Countless women, men, and families are wounded spiritually and emotionally, and for women there can also be lasting physical consequences as a result of abortion.”
With more pregnant mothers turning towards abortion as what they perceive to be their only option in difficult circumstances, the pro-life movement is increasingly faced with the question of how best to respond.
“We must be available to help mothers in their greatest hour of need,” explained Dame Colleen Bayer, the founder of Family Life International.
“We must also educate people to cherish the baby they have been gifted, whatever the circumstances. We must also encourage chastity, which leads to true human flourishing.”
Pharmacies, Midwives, and GP Clinics Providing Abortions
Information released through a separate Official Information Act (OIA) request to the Ministry of Health reveals the expanding availability of abortion drugs across the country.
There are 550 pharmacies throughout New Zealand willing to dispense the abortion drugs mifepristone and misoprostol used for Early Medical (chemical) abortion.
Public hospitals, several dedicated abortion clinics, GP practices and midwives are publicly listed on the Decide National Telehealth website. Alarmingly, four GP practices provide Early Medical (chemical) Abortion up to 10 weeks gestation, with one in Blenheim also performing surgical abortions up to 14 weeks. Two midwives are publicly listed on the site.
Clear Challenge Before Us
The continued rise in abortion numbers, together with the increasing availability of abortion drugs through pharmacies and primary care providers, points to a major shift in how abortion is accessed and normalised in New Zealand.
For those committed to protecting both mother and child, the challenge is clear. Compassionate and unwavering support for women in crisis pregnancies, renewed cultural respect for the preborn child, and education that promotes responsible and life-affirming choices are needed now more than ever.
The provisional statistics and information about pharmacies were obtained by Right to Life via an Official Information Act request.
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