07/04/2026
From 1 April, New Zealand is updating how we classify prediabetes and diabetes using the HbA1c blood test, to line up with international standards.
The new thresholds are:
41 or less = normal
42–47 = prediabetes (higher risk)
48 or above = diabetes (previously this was 50 or above)
Because the diabetes threshold is moving from 50 to 48 mmol/mol, a small number of people who were previously prediabetic will now be considered to have diabetes. You can reach out to us to discuss what this means, and whether any changes to your care are needed.
If your recent blood tests put you in the prediabetes or diabetes range, lifestyle is still the cornerstone of care – things like food choices, physical activity, and weight management – with medication to support this if needed.
Your Local Health team is here to help you achieve good health and appropriately manage your diabetes risk. If you’re unsure what your HbA1c means, or have questions, book an appointment and we can talk it through.
