A shift in how New Zealand approaches puberty blockers

The Health Ministry's brief shows a lack of good quality evidence backing the drug's effectiveness and safety for treating gender dysphoria .

It says they should only be prescribed by a clinician experienced in gender-affirming care, as part of a team offering a full range of support.

Paediatric endocrinologist, Paul Hofman says New Zealand's traditionally had a rights-based approach to blockers.

He says if people feel transgender, it's their right to access the drugs.