Methamphetamine use doubled in New Zealand over the 12 months to the end of 2024, and Customs seizures of the drug increased 266%.
Wastewater testing revealed meth consumption went from 732kg in 2023 to 1,434kg in 2024 – rising above 20kg a week for the first time ever, with an estimated “social harm” cost of NZ$1.5 billion.
The rise in meth use is believed to be a result of the market being “saturated” by transnational crime syndicates targeting New Zealand, and Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced a new action plan to combat the drug on Sunday.
“Meth is a scourge on our society. Consumption doubled last year and ultimately, increased meth use fuels organised crime, and destroys lives. This Government’s primary justice target is to reduce the number of victims of crime,” he said.
“Significant action is already underway, including investment in Customs, reviewing maritime security powers, police recruitment, establishing the Ministerial Advisory Group on Organised Crime, and Border Security Bill amendments.
“However, there is more we can do to disrupt international supply, sharpen enforcement and reduce demand. The Government has agreed to a suite of actions it can promptly take, and has directed officials to begin working on them immediately.”
The measures include a “hard-hitting nationwide media campaign” to “raise public awareness about meth-related harm”, $30 million for the hardest-hit communities, maritime operations to disrupt organised crime networks operating across the Pacific Ocean, and increased police powers.
The government also pledged $23.1 million for initiatives aimed at disrupting drug exports in their source countries, a new police money laundering team, and a a Resilience to Organised Crime in Communities work program.
Header image: An estimated 90kg of methamphetamine seized at Auckland International Airport in April (NZ Customs).
