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Frequently asked questions about illicit drugs in New Zealand
1. What are the most widely available illicit drugs within New Zealand?Cannabis, Methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy) and GHB (often called a 'date rape drug') are the most prevalent drugs in New Zealand currently. The New Zealand Drug Foundation (ww.nzdf.co.nz) has specific information about these drugs including details on the short and long term effects, penalties, dependence, addiction and overdose risk. 2. How are illicit drugs supplied to New Zealand?Illicit drugs are either manufactured in New Zealand or imported. The manufacture of drugs in clandestine (secret) labs such as methamphetamine has become a significant problem in recent years. There are risks in the manufacturing process due to poisonous, explosive, corrosive, toxic and extremely flammable chemicals used. Some of the chemical processes involved in producing methamphetamine can produce highly toxic deadly gases. These fumes and chemicals pose a significant safety issue for Police, ESR and other emergency personnel involved in the investigation and clean-up process. See also: How to recognise a methamphetamine lab 3. What are the penalties for hardcore and soft-core drugs?
Other OffencesPossession of instruments (Found with a pipe, bong, needles, syringes, spotting knife); 1 year and/or $500 fine. Cultivation of Cannabis (Includes to sow or plant); On indictment: 7 years imprisonment OR Summarily: 2 years jail and/or $2,000 fine (depending on the amount). For a more detailed version of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 see the New Zealand Legislation website. 4. How does the NZ law define use, possession, cultivation and trafficking?
5. If I report a young person smoking or in possession of cannabis will they get locked up?No. If they are under 17 years of age they could be arrested but if it is a first offence and if the amount of cannabis in their possession does not constitute enough for supply they will be dealt with by youth aid using a number of options such as -
If they are 17 or older it is likely that they will get diversion (especially if it is their first offence). This means that they will avoid the court process and the likelihood of a conviction, often in return for a donation and/or an approved counseling course. See also: FAQ Youth Court - Ministry of Justice (Answers questions such as; How old is a young person, How old is a child? What is the Youth Court?) 6. What are some of the slang terms used for the most common illicit drugs?
To find more slang terms visit the New Zealand Drug Foundation website. 7. Does the NZ Police enforce drug-driving?Yes, the police do enforce drug driving. In 2004, the police initiated a drug driving recognition programme for road policing staff to recognise the signs of a driver under the influence of drugs. Drivers suspected of consuming drugs have to have a blood test conducted by a medical practitioner. TRL research in Britain published in 2001 indicated that illicit drug use in fatalities had risen from 3% to 18%. There is little research into drug driving in New Zealand. 8. Where can I find accurate information about illicit drugs?The New Zealand Drug Foundation is a research and advocacy organisation that provides comprehensive information about illegal drugs in New Zealand. Their web site provides information on about the short and long term effects of drugs, penalties and dependence, addiction and overdose risk. 9. I found what looks like drugs in my son's room, how do I work out what it is?You could show it to your doctor or take it to the drug clinic of your local hospital to be identified. If you are concerned your youngster is using illegal drugs you can also seek help from a Police Education Officer, a Police Youth Aid Officer (link to getting help) or a school counselor. 10. How do I recognize a drug laboratory?If you have concerns about activity in your neighbourhood that you think might involve the manufacture or use of methamphetamine, here are some signs to look out for:
If you have any concerns get in touch with your local Police (phonebook) - all information received can be treated in strictest confidence. 11. I am a school teacher, what is my responsibility if a pupil is using illicit drugs?The Ministry of Education advises schools that whenever a student is found in possession of illegal drugs Police should be notified. You should also advise the school guidance counsellor about your concerns. 12. Where can I get treatment/counselling?To talk to someone about your or someone else's drug use, or for contacts of your local counsellor or treatment provider, call the Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797 (www.addictionshelp.org.nz ) or contact Community Drug and Alcohol Services - www.cads.org.nz. A directory of services is also provided on this site. 13. What shall I do if I suspect the house I am moving into has previously been used as a methamphetamine lab?If the NZ Police have been involved, once they have completed their investigations and gathered the evidence that they require, the local Council is notified of the existence of the abandoned methamphetamine lab and can direct the owner/occupier on appropriate remedial measures. If the NZ Police have not been involved then no one should rent, purchase or otherwise occupy a house or dwelling which has been used as an illegal methamphetamine lab until the property has been decontaminated using reputable commercial cleaners. Contact your local Council Environmental Health officer for advice. Guidelines are being developed by the Ministry of Health in consultation with relevant key agencies from across central government to inform key audience groups like territorial authorities and public health service units within District Health Boards. The purpose of the Guidelines will be to inform, assist and advise and provide a platform for agreement between agencies with regard to the clean up/remediation of former methamphetamine laboratories (P labs). The New Zealand Police are also reviewing their procedures to ensure that appropriate action is taken for the welfare of children who are found to be living in or near P-labs. |
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