Former Bay of Plenty addicts fighting to break meth stigma

A support group has formed to offer help to methamphetamine addicts in Tauranga. Photo / Getty Images

A newly formed group wants to help break the stigma that surrounds methamphetamine addicts.

Tauranga woman Nichole Paul will join the Anti P Ministry at a stall in Mount Maunganui today where they will offer information, support and advice for addicts and their families.

"There's a huge problem of stigma in New Zealand that only 'bad people' do meth," Paul said.

"We are just trying to raise awareness so people can feel like they can ask for help without being judged."

Paul said a lot of people were reluctant to ask for support or advice because people had the skewed perception of meth addicts as being criminals.

"It really shows me where New Zealand is at with it and we need to be more compassionate. It's a community problem. The way we see it, it's a health issue, not a criminal issue."

The Tauranga branch of the Anti P Ministry formed about two months ago and has already held stalls in Greerton and planned to hold similar sessions in Te Puke, Welcome Bay and Tauranga city.

"Our goal is to have an actual building set up so people can come and see us when they need. But we need everyone."

The group will be available from 11am to 1pm outside Love Merino on Maunganui Rd, Mount Maunganui today.