Māramatanga. Tautoko. Understanding. Support.
Cluster headache is one of the most painful conditions known to medicine, and in New Zealand getting the right diagnosis and treatment can take years. Cluster Headache New Zealand exists to change that, so you can find clear information and support in one place.
Whether you've just been diagnosed, are struggling to get answers from your GP, or have been living with cluster headache for years, there is something here for you.
Cluster headache is a primary neurological condition that causes attacks of excruciating, one-sided pain around or behind one eye. The attacks come in clusters, often several times a day, for weeks or months at a time.
The right treatment can end an attack in minutes, and preventive medication can dramatically reduce how often attacks occur during a cluster period. Here's what's available in New Zealand and how to access it.
High-flow oxygen (12–15 L/min via non-rebreather mask) aborts attacks in 15–20 minutes for most patients. Health NZ confirmed in July 2026 that it funds this for cluster headache.
Oxygen access in NZThe 6mg subcutaneous injection is the fastest-acting abortive, ending an attack within about 10–15 minutes for most. Ask your GP specifically for the injectable form, not tablets.
About sumatriptanThe first-line preventive for cluster headache. Effective doses are often higher than those used for heart conditions, so your GP or neurologist needs the right CH dosing.
About verapamil
Why one New Zealander is flying to the international cluster headache patient conference, and why being in a room with people who understand the condition matters so much.
Where to find cluster headache support in New Zealand: free monthly online meetings, a peer community across Australia and New Zealand, help for families and carers, and what to do when you are in pain right now.
We host a free online support meeting on the third Sunday of every month for people across Australia and New Zealand. Here is what they are and how to join.
Cluster Headache New Zealand was founded by a New Zealander living with cluster headache, after years of navigating the health system without a clear roadmap. Medical content is based on the international diagnostic criteria (ICHD-3) and published clinical guidelines, with each medical page showing its current New Zealand clinical review status.
We are incorporated as Cluster Headache Aotearoa New Zealand Trust Board under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957 and registered with Charities Services as charity CC65148. We are not funded by pharmaceutical companies. Our only agenda: every Kiwi with cluster headache has access to the information and community they deserve.
"Cluster headache destroyed years of my life before I understood what I had and what could help. The information exists. The treatments exist. In New Zealand, there was nowhere to find it all in one place. That's why CHNZ exists."
Craig Stewart, Founder, Cluster Headache New Zealand