| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 06, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001404644 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 06, 2023 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Neoleukin Therapeutics, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36327 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-0542593 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 188 East Blaine Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 450 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Seattle |
| Entity Address, State or Province | WA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 98102 |
| City Area Code | (866) |
| Local Phone Number | 245-0312 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.000001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | NLTX |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
