On the 18th June 2025 we learned that Melatonin is going to become more accessible. While it has been classified as a prescription-only medicine, the announcement that it is to be sold over-the-counter at pharmacies in New Zealand is exciting news for many Kiwis who struggle with sleep issues like jet lag and insomnia. Brands currently available in New Zealand include Vigisom.
As of 25 September 2025 you can now buy certain Melatonin products online without a prescription.
Melatonin is a natural hormone that plays an important role in controlling your body’s sleep-wake cycle and sleep pattern. It is made by the pineal gland in your brain. Melatonin is often referred to as the “sleep hormone” it signals to our body that it’s time to wind down and go to sleep.
Factors like stress, aging, or too much screen time at night can disrupt natural melatonin levels.
Melatonin production is linked to the level of light. Your pineal gland, a small pea-shaped gland located deep in the brain, releases the most melatonin when there’s darkness – then decreases when you’re exposed to light.
This is how melatonin helps control your circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) that happens each day. This is also why some people feel sleepier more often in winter months – there is less sunlight in the day and nights are longer, meaning more melatonin is released.
Melatonin affects cells in your brain’s hypothalamus, which moderates your body temperature, blood pressure and mood to make it easier to drift off to sleep.
Yes, melatonin is available as a supplement in tablet and capsules. Some forms of melatonin supplements are modified release, meaning they release slowly over several hours.
Internationally melatonin supplements are commonly used to help regulate sleep and treat sleep disorders. In New Zealand it is recommended to use melatonin supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safe use.
