Latest fromDrug Abuse
'Challenging times': Social workers see spike in meth, mental health issues
'We’re trying ... but at times it feels like we are chasing our tails.'
Editorial: Meth crisis needs a collaborative approach
We must support those on the frontline of this complex and growing emergency.
Raccoon caught with crack pipe
A woman has been arrested after her pet raccoon was found with a crack pipe in her car.
80-year-old kuia at coalface of Northland's meth crisis as iwi works on plan
Ngāpuhi leader Mane Tahere says we all need to join the fight against the meth crisis.
'Mastermind' jailed 11+ years for $11m drug syndicate in Christchurch
The drug ring's "mastermind" received an 11-year prison sentence in Christchurch.
Up in Smoke: Why NZ's medical cannabis industry is struggling to make ends meet
After tragic cases, a new industry touted as a potential saviour has run into roadblocks.
Northland's meth crisis: 'There's no magic wand for any of this'
Organisations say they are overwhelmed by 'a tsunami of need'.
Jock Zonfrillo’s widow gives emotional first TV interview, opens up on night MasterChef judge died
Lauren promised not to reveal Jock's cause of death to respect their privacy.
'I was just watering them': Man living in converted drug house denies being part of cannabis op
Thanh Truong Ho will likely be deported after serving his jail sentence.
Editorial: Community needs to buy-in to meth crackdown
OPINION: Northland has NZ's highest meth consumption, with 2000mg per day per 1000 people.
'Cold turkey': Former drug-taking league player avoids 501 deportation after remarkable turnaround
'Rot set in' when the drug user turned to methamphetamine. He later beat his addiction.
'Raid us': Ngāpuhi leader asks police to crack down as teens smoke meth in main street
Ngāpuhi leader Mane Tahere has asked police to crack down hard like they did in Ōpōtiki
Police Minister wants crackdown on Northland gangs, dirt bike riders
Mark Mitchell heard about key crime problems in Northland, and offered some solutions.
'Growing harm': Hospital discharges linked to meth use skyrocket
It comes after wastewater testing revealed a doubling of meth use last year.
$34 million: Auckland Airport staff seize 90kg worth of meth
Auckland Airport staff have seized an estimated 405.69kg of drugs so far in 2025.
How desperate business loan led single mum into meth syndicate’s inner circle
Reaching out to loan sharks over WeChat turned out to be a bad idea. She is now in jail.
'A prison of my own trauma': Woman addresses life-shattering night she was raped by three men
Victim battles with “suffocating” PTSD and depression after sex attack.
Weed estate: The landlords, the seven rental properties, and the cannabis enterprise
Landlord loses property portfolio, money, and gets home detention.
Drug dealer imported meth, cocaine while on police curfew, now locked down around the clock
He claimed he was set up, saying someone may have used his name and address.
Man charged over deadly highway rampage in Queensland
The suspect has been charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death.
How a successful farmer spiralled into a homeless 'night-crawler'
Paul Harrop once ran a $4 million farm. Now, he's in prison.
Meth dealer with 23-year addiction praised for rehabilitation efforts
Brian Tito was found with 87g of meth and 'tick lists' of around $50,000.
Crime proceeds could fund drug addiction help, Mental Health Minister says
The Mental Health Minister says crime proceeds could help fund meth addiction services.
Gang member jailed for perverting justice after fake funeral bail bid
He sought compassionate bail, claiming his godmother had died – she didn't exist.
Philip Polkinghorne claims Covid-19 vaccine led to wife's death
Ex-eye doctor – acquitted of murdering wife last year – spoke extensively for documentary.
Well-known Auckland artist used baby as decoy in prison drug-smuggling attempt
Visiting hours included a cuddle, a hug and multiple pills stuffed down an inmate's shirt.
Grieving parents demand tougher penalties for drugged drivers after daughters’ deaths
Ella-Rose Donker and Madi Chamberlain were killed by drivers high on MDMA.